Consider the consecutive reaction A -> B -> C. From Handout I, we have for the concentration of B: [B] = -[A]{exp(-kt)-exp(-k2t)}. At issue is the k-k circumstance(s) where, after a short initial period, the concentration of B remains constant.
(a) Compare rate constants k1 and k2. When is the quasi-steady state assumption justified, and why?
(b) For the case of quasi-steady state, which of the two consecutive reactions is the rate-limiting step?
(c) The individual steps of the consecutive reaction can be thought of as individual resistances in series. The rate-limiting step can be circumvented if there is a parallel reaction (A directly to C). What additional condition is necessary so that the parallel step successfully circumvents the slow step in the consecutive reaction?
(d) Consider isolating each step of the consecutive reaction based on varying temperature experimentally. Under what condition would this be possible and why?