## Linear versus Non-Linear

$\frac{d[R]}{dt}=-k[R]; \ln [R]=-kt + \ln [R]_{0}; t_{\frac{1}{2}}=\frac{0.693}{k}$

Maya Pakulski 1D
Posts: 105
Joined: Thu Jul 11, 2019 12:17 am

### Linear versus Non-Linear

Hoe do you know when to use the linear first order integrated rate law (ln[A]=-kt+ln[A initial]) versus the nonlinear form ([A]=[A initial]e^-kt)?

Posts: 53
Joined: Fri Aug 02, 2019 12:16 am

### Re: Linear versus Non-Linear

I find the linear form easier to use in general for solving for different variables and basically everything. The linear form is also what you use to graph: you graph lnA versus time and the slope of the line is -k. I can't think of a good use for the nonlinear equation.

Jared_Yuge
Posts: 100
Joined: Sat Aug 17, 2019 12:17 am

### Re: Linear versus Non-Linear

The linear form is useful for graphical analysis and basic comprehension. It can also be useful for finding k, because its the slope of the line. Either work for simple calculation using the relationship between time and concentration of the reactant.

Julia Holsinger_1A
Posts: 50
Joined: Tue Feb 26, 2019 12:16 am

### Re: Linear versus Non-Linear

Would there ever be a first order linear slope that is positive and not negative?