Kinematics - GRE Subject Test: Chemistry

Card 0 of 1

Question

What kinetic equation describes the rate of an E1 process?

Answer

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.

Compare your answer with the correct one above

Tap the card to reveal the answer