Abstract:

In this paper, we discussed several problems on calculation of reaction rate constant in physical chemistry reference books. When calculating the rate constant k of the second-order reaction, we should make the half-life formula consistent with the reaction stoichiometric equation. And when calculating the activation energy with Arrhenius formula for ideal gas-phase reaction, attention should be paid to identifying the difference between the reaction rate constant k_c and k_p, as well as the difference between corresponding activation energy E_ac and E_ap. It is beneficial for students to have a correct understanding in calculation.

Key words: Reaction rate constant, Half-life, Gas-phase reaction, Activation energy