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Zero-Order Reactions

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Zero-order reaction kinetics are characterized by a constant reaction rate, unaffected by the concentration of reactants. This occurs in scenarios like catalyst saturation or when one reactant is in excess, maintaining a steady rate. The kinetics are described by a linear equation, and the half-life depends on the initial concentration and rate constant. Real-world examples include catalytic gas decomposition and enzyme-catalyzed reactions.

Fundamentals of Zero-Order Reaction Kinetics

Zero-order reactions are a class of chemical reactions in which the rate is constant and does not depend on the concentration of the reactants. This is in contrast to first-order or second-order reactions, where the rate is proportional to the concentration of one or more reactants. In zero-order kinetics, the rate of reaction is determined solely by the rate constant, denoted as \( k \). This phenomenon typically occurs under conditions where the reaction is limited by factors other than reactant concentrations, such as surface saturation on a catalyst or a scenario where the reactants are in large excess.
Laboratory with flask on magnetic stirrer, pipette with blue solution and beaker with colored liquids on workbench.

Conditions for Zero-Order Kinetics

Zero-order kinetics are observed under specific circumstances. One such condition is when the reaction rate is limited by the availability of active sites, as in the case of catalysis, where the active sites are fully occupied by the reactants. Another scenario is when one reactant is present in such excess that its concentration effectively remains constant throughout the reaction. These conditions create a situation where the supply of reactants is continually replenished, maintaining a steady reaction rate regardless of the actual concentration of the reactants.

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00

The reaction rate in zero-order kinetics is determined solely by the ______ constant.

rate

01

Zero-order kinetics: reaction rate dependency

Reaction rate is constant; does not depend on reactant concentration.

02

Zero-order kinetics: catalysis scenario

Occurs when enzyme active sites are saturated with substrate.

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