Advanced Reaction Rate Ratio Calculator

Calculate reaction rate ratios using the rate law Rate = k[A]^m[B]^n to compare relative reaction rates between experiments or determine reaction orders without knowing the rate constant (k). Input concentrations and orders for two experiments, and optionally a third for comparison.

Enter Experiment Parameters

Add Comparison Experiment (Optional)

Standard
Step Details
Chart

Result

Calculation Details

Reaction Rate Comparison

Formulas

Reaction Rate Ratio Calculation

Reaction rate ratios are calculated using the rate law:

Rate = k[A]^m[B]^n

Ratio of rates between two experiments:

Rate₁ / Rate₂ = ([A]₁^m [B]₁^n) / ([A]₂^m [B]₂^n)

To find reaction order (e.g., m) when [B] is constant:

m = log(Rate₁ / Rate₂) / log([A]₁ / [A]₂)

Where:

  • Rate: Reaction rate (M/s).
  • k: Rate constant (cancels out in ratio).
  • [A], [B]: Molar concentrations of reactants (M).
  • m, n: Reaction orders for A and B.

Usage Notes:

  • Provide concentrations for at least two experiments.
  • Rate inputs are optional; if provided, orders can be calculated.
  • Order inputs are optional; if provided, rate ratios are computed.
  • Results are rounded to 4 decimal places for ratios and orders.
  • Comparison experiment enables additional rate analysis.

How to Use the Reaction Rate Ratio Calculator

  1. Enter Reaction Name: Provide the reaction formula or name.
  2. Input Experiment Parameters: Enter concentrations of reactants A and B for two experiments, and optionally their rates.
  3. Specify Reaction Orders (Optional): Provide m and n if known, or leave blank to calculate them from rates.
  4. Add Comparison Experiment (Optional): Include a third experiment for additional rate comparison.
  5. Choose Display Mode: Select standard, step-by-step, or chart view.
  6. Calculate: Click “Calculate” to compute rate ratios or orders.
  7. Export Results (Optional): Download as JSON for further analysis.
  8. Reset Data: Click “Reset” to clear fields.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is a reaction rate ratio?

A reaction rate ratio compares the rates of a reaction under different conditions, using the rate law Rate = k[A]^m[B]^n, by dividing the rate expressions of two experiments.

How do I determine reaction order?

By keeping one reactant’s concentration constant and varying another, the ratio of rates and concentrations can be used to calculate the order (e.g., m = log(Rate₁/Rate₂) / log([A]₁/[A]₂)).

Why does the rate constant (k) cancel out?

The rate constant cancels in the ratio Rate₁/Rate₂ if the temperature is constant across experiments, as k is the same in both rate laws.

What are typical units for concentrations and rates?

Concentrations are typically in mol/L (M), and rates for first-order reactions are in M/s. Units depend on the reaction order.

Where can I find experimental data for concentrations and rates?

Data can be obtained from lab experiments, chemical kinetics studies, or databases like the NIST Kinetics Database.