The decomposition of ozone in the stratosphere can occur by the following two-step mechanism: Step 1: Br + O₃ → BrO + O₂
Step 2: BrO + O → Br + O₂
Which species is an intermediate in this mechanism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An intermediate is a species that is formed in one step of a reaction mechanism and then consumed in a later step. In this mechanism, BrO is formed in Step 1 and consumed in Step 2, making it an intermediate. Br and O are reactants and products, respectively, and O₃ is a catalyst that does not appear in the overall reaction.

The Decomposition of Ozone in the Stratosphere Can Occur by the Following