Question

2. Draw a labeled reaction-energy diagram (graph of potential energy versus reaction coordinate) for a three-step overall exothermic reaction with the A. first step being the rate-determining step B. third step being the rate-determining step Label each graph with the following: reactants (r), transition states (ts.), intermediates (int.), products (p). activation energies (Ea), and overall standard heat of reaction (AH). (Note: Each subscript, x, needs to be a number that refers to the appropriate primary mechanistic step. For example, Ea, is the label for the activation energy of the first step.) Finally, state what the rate-determining step's transition state resembles. Use the Hammond postulate to explain your reasoning.

Answer 1

For case A, the transition state is close to the intermediate or close to the product.

2.B. 2. A. - LA i IM2 potential potential AH energy energy te Reaction co-ordinate Reaction co-ordinate

For case B, the transition state of the rate determining step is close to the reactant in terms of the energy.