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Ch.14 - Chemical Kinetics
Chapter 14, Problem 16

Draw a graph showing the reaction pathway for an overall exothermic reaction with two intermediates that are produced at different rates. On your graph, indicate the reactants, products, intermediates, transition states, and activation energies. [Sections 14.6 and 14.7]

Verified step by step guidance
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Step 1: Begin by drawing the x-axis and y-axis on your graph. The x-axis will represent the reaction coordinate, which is the progress of the reaction from reactants to products. The y-axis will represent the potential energy of the system.
Step 2: Plot the starting point of the graph at a higher energy level to represent the reactants. Label this point as 'Reactants'.
Step 3: Draw a curve that rises to a peak, representing the first transition state. This peak is the activation energy for the first step of the reaction. Label this peak as 'Transition State 1'.
Step 4: After the first transition state, the curve should drop to a lower energy level than the reactants, indicating the formation of the first intermediate. Label this point as 'Intermediate 1'.
Step 5: Repeat the process for the second intermediate and transition state. Draw another curve rising to a second peak (Transition State 2) and then dropping to a lower energy level than Intermediate 1, indicating the formation of the second intermediate. Finally, the curve should drop further to the lowest energy level, representing the products. Label this final point as 'Products'.