Rate Constant Formula:
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Definition: The rate constant (k₀) for a zero-order reaction is the proportionality constant that relates the rate of reaction to the reactant concentration.
Purpose: This calculator determines the rate constant for zero-order reactions in chemical kinetics, particularly for reactions followed by first-order processes.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The rate constant is calculated by dividing the change in concentration by the time interval.
Details: Determining the rate constant is essential for understanding reaction kinetics, predicting reaction rates, and designing chemical reactors.
Tips: Enter the initial concentration, current concentration, and time interval. All values must be positive, and initial concentration must be greater than current concentration.
Q1: What is a zero-order reaction?
A: A zero-order reaction is one where the rate is independent of the reactant concentration.
Q2: What are typical units for k₀?
A: The rate constant has units of concentration per time (e.g., mol/m³·s or M/s).
Q3: When would I use this calculation?
A: When studying reaction kinetics where the initial step follows zero-order kinetics.
Q4: How does temperature affect k₀?
A: Like all rate constants, k₀ typically increases with temperature according to the Arrhenius equation.
Q5: Can k₀ be negative?
A: No, rate constants are always positive values. A negative result indicates incorrect input values.