If the reaction 2HI → H₂ + I₂ is second order, which of the following will yield a linear plot?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A second order reaction follows the rate law of k[HI]^2. In order to get a linear plot, we need to manipulate the equation into the form of y=mx+b. Rearranging the rate law, we get 1/[HI] = (1/k)t + 1/[HI]0. This is in the form of y=mx+b, where 1/[HI] is our y-axis, (1/k) is our slope (m), t is our x-axis, and 1/[HI]0 is our y-intercept (b). Therefore, plotting 1/[HI] vs. time will yield a linear plot.

If the Reaction 2HI → H2 + I2 Is Second

If the Reaction 2HI → H₂ + I₂ Is Second