Elementary Steps
Definition
Elementary steps are individual processes within complex reactions that occur in one single event or stage.
Analogy
Consider elementary steps as individual dance moves within an entire choreography routine. Each move happens independently and contributes to completing the whole performance.
Related terms
Molecularity: The number of molecules involved in an elementary step. Like counting how many dancers are needed for each dance move.
Unimolecular Reaction: An elementary step involving only one molecule, similar to solo dance moves.
Bimolecular Reaction: An elementary step involving two molecules reacting together, akin to partner dancing moves.
"Elementary Steps" appears in:
Study guides (3)
Practice Questions (2)
- The reaction described [O3(g) + O(g) → 2O2(g)] is the decomposition of O3. With an addition of NO, the reaction proceeds in two elementary steps and a mechanism is shown: [Step 1: O3 + NO → NO2 + O2 (slow)] [Step 2: NO2 + O → NO + O2 (fast)]. Which is the rate law?
- Why does the coefficients matter for elementary steps?
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