Reaction Mechanisms and Rate Law

AP Chemistry· difficulty 3/5

A three-step mechanism's energy profile shows TS2 highest, then TS3, then TS1.

TS1 TS2 TS3

Which step is rate-determining?

  • A

    Step 1

  • B

    All equal

  • C

    Step 3

  • D

    Step 2

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Explanation

The step with highest activation energy (highest TS relative to its starting valley) determines the rate. Here TS2 is highest.

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