Question

For the reaction shown in Scheme 1, the concentration profiles of different species are provided. 
\(\text{Scheme 1:}\) 

Based on this graph, the correct condition(s) regarding the rate constants is(are) 
 

• A. \(k_2 > k_4\)
• B. \(k_3 > k_1\)
• C. \(k_2 > k_1\)
• D. \(k_1 = k_2\)

Hint:

When analyzing reaction rate constants from concentration-time profiles, look at the relative rates of change for each species to infer the relationship between the rate constants.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Analyzing the graph.
The concentration profiles of the species in the reaction suggest that the rate of formation of product \(P\) (and hence the rate constant \(k_2\)) is higher than the rate of its conversion into \(Q\), as indicated by the curve for \(P\) steeply increasing at an earlier time compared to the curve for \(S\) and \(Q\). This implies that \(k_2 > k_1\).

Step 2: Conclusion.
The correct condition is (C) \(k_2 > k_1\).