MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach) Kinetics and Solubility
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Jul 10, 2025 Explore the intriguing world of chemical kinetics, where concepts like collision theory and the Arrhenius equation come to life. Discover how reaction rates are influenced by activation energy and catalysts. Transition into the dynamics of solubility, learning about the solubility product (Ksp) and the common ion effect. Unravel selective precipitation and the principles behind Henry’s law, connecting gas solubility to partial pressure. This journey through chemistry provides vital insights for aspiring medical students.
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Activation Energy Controls Rate
- Activation energy is the energy hump reactants must cross and larger humps mean slower reactions.
- Catalysts lower activation energy and speed reactions without changing overall thermodynamics.
Collision Theory Determines Success
- Collision theory demands collisions, sufficient energy, and correct orientation for reactions to proceed.
- Orientation matters, as in SN2 backside attack causing stereochemical inversion.
Determine Rate Laws Methodically
- Use experiments where only one reactant changes to deduce each reaction order by comparing rate changes.
- Only use stoichiometric coefficients for orders when explicitly told the reaction is elementary.