Complex Reactions: Full Explanation
1. What Are Complex Reactions?
A complex reaction is a chemical reaction that occurs through multiple intermediate steps rather
than a single step.
Each step is called an elementary reaction, and the overall reaction is the sum of these steps.
Key Characteristics of Complex Reactions:
- Involve multiple steps (reaction mechanism).
- Include reaction intermediates (temporary species formed during the reaction).
- Have a rate law that is not directly derived from the balanced equation.
- May exhibit different reaction orders based on the mechanism.
2. Types of Complex Reactions
(A) Consecutive Reactions (Stepwise or Sequential Reactions)
These reactions occur in multiple steps where the product of one step becomes the reactant of the
next.
Example: Decomposition of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
NO2 -> NO + O
O + O2 -> O3
Here, O (oxygen atom) is an intermediate.
(B) Parallel (Simultaneous) Reactions
A single reactant forms multiple products through different reaction pathways.
1. What Are Complex Reactions?
A complex reaction is a chemical reaction that occurs through multiple intermediate steps rather
than a single step.
Each step is called an elementary reaction, and the overall reaction is the sum of these steps.
Key Characteristics of Complex Reactions:
- Involve multiple steps (reaction mechanism).
- Include reaction intermediates (temporary species formed during the reaction).
- Have a rate law that is not directly derived from the balanced equation.
- May exhibit different reaction orders based on the mechanism.
2. Types of Complex Reactions
(A) Consecutive Reactions (Stepwise or Sequential Reactions)
These reactions occur in multiple steps where the product of one step becomes the reactant of the
next.
Example: Decomposition of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
NO2 -> NO + O
O + O2 -> O3
Here, O (oxygen atom) is an intermediate.
(B) Parallel (Simultaneous) Reactions
A single reactant forms multiple products through different reaction pathways.
