A reaction-energy diagram with two transition states (peaks) is shown.
Which step is rate determining?
- A
The second step (TS2).
- Bcheck_circle
The first step (TS1, higher peak).
- C
Whichever has lower Eₐ.
- D
The exothermic step.
Explanation
The slow (rate-determining) step is the one with the highest activation barrier. Here TS1 is taller, so step 1 is rate-determining.