Units of Rate Constant

[DanielleNario1A]

How can you use units of the rate constant to identify order of the reaction?

[Cole Elsner 2J]

In a zero order reaction, the rate constant would just be M*s^-1. With a first order reaction, we'd have just s^-1, as we'd have M from our reactant. In second order we have M^-1*s^-1, and from every unit jump forwards, we have a higher number of M, which is just our order # - 1.

[Lauren Ho 2E]

Completing 15.9 in the sixth edition should be very helpful in understanding this concept!

[005113695]

each order's units are different. However, Cole's units are correct and are very helpful in figuring out which order is being used.

[JiangJC Dis2K]

Yes. For zero order, the rate constant units are mol/Lsec., First order=1/s, 2nd order=L/molsec.