The accompanying diagram,which describes the fate of the intermediate in a reversible reaction,implies that:
A)the less stable product forms more rapidly.
B)the more stable product forms more rapidly.
C)product B will predominate at equilibrium.
D)the intermediate has a short lifetime.
E)No conclusions can be drawn as to either reaction rate or product stability.

Question

The accompanying diagram,which describes the fate of the intermediate in a reversible reaction,implies that: 
A)the less stable product forms more rapidly. 
B)the more stable product forms more rapidly. 
C)product B will predominate at equilibrium. 
D)the intermediate has a short lifetime. 
E)No conclusions can be drawn as to either reaction rate or product stability.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The diagram shows that the intermediate has two possible pathways to form products A and B. However, the pathway leading to B involves a lower energy transition state, indicating that B is the more stable product. This implies that, at equilibrium, product B will be more abundant. Additionally, since the transition state leading to B is lower in energy, it is expected that the formation of product B will be favored over product A, indicating that B will form more rapidly. Therefore, choice B (the more stable product forms more rapidly) is the best answer.

The Accompanying Diagram,which Describes the Fate of the Intermediate in a Reversible