Multiple Choice
Consider the following two reactions:
Reaction 1: H2 + I2 → 2HI (slow)
Reaction 2: NO2 + CO → NO + CO2 (fast)
Based on their relative rates, which reaction is likely to have the higher activation energy?
15. Chemical Kinetics
Intro to Chemical Kinetics
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the role of an inhibitor in a chemical reaction?
A
It decreases the rate of the reaction by interfering with the reactants or catalyst.
B
It changes the equilibrium position of the reaction.
C
It acts as a reactant and is consumed during the reaction.
D
It increases the rate of the reaction by lowering the activation energy.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that an inhibitor is a substance that affects the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.
Recall that inhibitors typically work by interfering with the reactants or the catalyst, which slows down the reaction rate.
Recognize that changing the equilibrium position involves shifting the balance between reactants and products, which is not the primary role of an inhibitor.
Note that acting as a reactant and being consumed is characteristic of reactants themselves, not inhibitors.
Remember that increasing the rate of reaction by lowering activation energy is the role of a catalyst or an activator, not an inhibitor.
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