Question

An assumption of Steady State Approximation is ____

(a) Reaction occurs without the formation of intermediates

(b) Catalyst does not accelerate reaction rate

(c) One of the intermediates in the reaction is consumed as quickly as it is generated

(d) Equilibrium state is attained at the end of a reaction

The question was asked in an internship interview.

This intriguing question originated from Reducing the Size of Kinetic Models in division Elements of Reaction Kinetics of Chemical Reaction Engineering

Answer 1

The correct option is (c) One of the intermediates in the reaction is consumed as quickly as it is generated

Explanation: The steady-state approximation is a method used to derive the rate expression. It is based on the assumption that one intermediate in the reaction mechanism is consumed as fast as it is generated.