Instantaneous rate

Definition

The instantaneous rate is the rate of a chemical reaction at a specific moment in time. It is determined by taking the derivative of concentration with respect to time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Instantaneous rate can be obtained from the slope of the tangent line on a concentration vs. time graph at a specific point.
2. It provides more precise information about reaction rates compared to average rates over an interval.
3. Mathematically, it is represented as $\frac{d[A]}{dt}$ where $[A]$ is the concentration of reactant A.
4. Instantaneous rates are crucial for understanding the dynamics of fast reactions.
5. In experiments, they often require sophisticated techniques like spectroscopy for accurate measurement.

Review Questions

• How do you calculate the instantaneous rate from a concentration vs. time graph?
• Why is the instantaneous rate important for fast reactions?
• What mathematical tool is used to determine the instantaneous rate?

Related terms

Average Rate: The change in concentration of reactants or products over a given time period divided by that time period.

Rate Law:

An equation that relates the reaction rate to the concentrations of reactants.

Reaction Order:

The power to which the concentration of a reactant is raised in the rate law.