A three-step mechanism has been suggested for the formation of carbonyl chloride: Step 1: Cl₂→ 2 Cl (fast,equilibrium)
Step 2: Cl + CO → COCl (fast,equilibrium)
Step 3: COCl + Cl₂ → COCl₂ + Cl (slow)
What is the molecularity of the rate-determining step?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rate-determining step is Step 3, which involves the collision of COCl and Cl₂. As two molecules are colliding in this step, it is a bimolecular reaction.

A Three-Step Mechanism Has Been Suggested for the Formation of Carbonyl