Question:

Which of the following is a first order reaction?

Show Hint

Remember that enzyme-catalyzed reactions and gas decompositions on metal surfaces are usually zero-order under high-concentration conditions, whereas radioactive decay and simple hydrogenations are typically first-order.
Updated On: Apr 29, 2026
  • Decomposition of ammonia on Pt surface at high temperature.
  • Hydrogenation of ethene to ethane.
  • Decomposition of HI on gold surface.
  • Hydrolysis of ethyl acetate in the presence of NaOH.
  • Oxidation of KI by peroxy disulphate.
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The order of a reaction is an experimental quantity that describes the relationship between the rate of a chemical reaction and the concentration of its reactants.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Let's analyze the kinetics of each given reaction:
- Option A & C: The decomposition of gases (like \(NH_3\) or \(HI\)) on a metal catalyst surface (Pt, Au) at high pressure/temperature follows zero-order kinetics because the catalyst surface becomes saturated.
- Option B: The hydrogenation of ethene (\(C_2H_4 + H_2 \to C_2H_6\)) is a classic example of a first-order reaction with respect to the hydrocarbon.
- Option D: Hydrolysis of an ester with a strong base (saponification) is a second-order reaction.
- Option E: The reaction between \(KI\) and peroxy disulphate is also a second-order reaction.

Step 4: Final Answer:

Hydrogenation of ethene is a first-order reaction.
Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Top KEAM Collision Theory of Chemical Reactions Questions

View More Questions