Q22E - Organic Chemistry (Mcmurry)

Question

Draw an energy diagram for a two-step exergonic reaction whose second step is faster than its first step.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Step 1: Energy profile diagram

An energy profile diagram is a plot of energy against the reaction coordinate. This shows when the reaction proceeds how the energy of the reactant and product changes.

Step 2: Relation between K eq and exergonic reaction

When ${\text{K}}_{\text{eq}}$ greater than 1 then the energy is out in the reaction which means the reaction is exergonic.

When ${\text{K}}_{\text{eq}}$less than 1 is then the energy is in the reaction which means the reaction is endergonic.

If  ${\text{K}}_{\text{eq}}$< 1 then ${\text{ΔG}}^{\text{o}}$ is positive.

Step 3: A faster step in the reaction

As in the given reaction, there are two steps therefore it has two transition states. As the second step is faster so the second transition state has lower energy.