Question:

In a first order reaction, the reactant decomposes 25% of its initial concentration in 40 minutes. What is the value of rate constant of the reaction? (Given: $\log 3 = 0.4771$, $\log 4 = 0.6021$)

Show Hint

For 1st order reactions, always use $k = \frac{2.303}{t} \log \frac{a}{a-x}$ and convert percentage directly into fraction form.
Updated On: Jul 18, 2026
  • $7.19 \times 10^{-3} \, \text{min}^{-1}$
  • $2.19 \times 10^{-3} \, \text{min}^{-1}$
  • $5.19 \times 10^{-3} \, \text{min}^{-1}$
  • $1.19 \times 10^{-3} \, \text{min}^{-1}$
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Use first-order integrated rate law.
For a first-order reaction: \[ k = \frac{2.303}{t} \log \frac{a}{a-x} \] where \(a\) is initial concentration and \(a-x\) is remaining concentration after time \(t\).

Step 2: Interpret given data.
25% decomposed means: \[ a-x = 75\% = \frac{3}{4}a \] Time given: \[ t = 40 \, \text{min} \]

Step 3: Substitute in formula.
\[ k = \frac{2.303}{40} \log \left(\frac{a}{(3/4)a}\right) = \frac{2.303}{40} \log \left(\frac{4}{3}\right) \]

Step 4: Evaluate logarithm.
\[ \log\left(\frac{4}{3}\right) = \log 4 - \log 3 \] \[ = 0.6021 - 0.4771 = 0.1250 \]

Step 5: Calculate rate constant.
\[ k = \frac{2.303}{40} \times 0.125 \] \[ k = 0.057575 \times 0.125 = 0.00719 \]

Step 6: Final conclusion.
\[ \boxed{7.19 \times 10^{-3} \, \text{min}^{-1}} \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0