MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5103

In a complex reaction consisting of multiple elementary steps, what is the relationship between the molecularity and the experimentally determined order?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #5103

  1. Question 1

    Q1. In a complex reaction consisting of multiple elementary steps, what is the relationship between the molecularity and the experimentally determined order?

    • A) Molecularity is always equal to the overall order
    • B) Molecularity of the slow step equals the overall order
    • C) Order is a theoretical value while molecularity is experimental
    • D) Molecularity can be zero or a fraction

    Answer: Molecularity of the slow step equals the overall order

    Explanation: The slow step is rate-determining; its molecularity defines the order. Option D is wrong because molecularity applies to elementary steps only.