GRE Subject Test: Chemistry : Kinematics

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for GRE Subject Test: Chemistry

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Example Questions

Example Question #31 : Physical Chemistry

What kinetic equation describes the rate of an E1 process?

Possible Answers:

None of these

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Most organic reactions are carried out in multiple steps. The rate equation can be derived from the process that occurs in the slowest step of the mechanism. An E1 reaction's slow step is when a leaving group separates from the hydrocarbon and a carbocation is formed. The only reactant in this step is one molar equivalent of the hydrocarbon. Thus, the rate equation only depends on that substance. The molar equivalent determines the exponent of each reactant in the equation.

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