Q. The correct difference between first- and second-order reactions is that
A) a first-order reaction can be catalyzed; a second-order reaction cannot be catalyzed
B) the half-life of a first-order reaction does not depend on $[A]_0$; the half-life of a second-order reaction does depend on $[A]_0$
C) the rate of a first-order reaction does not depend on reactant concentrations; the rate of a second-order reaction does depend on reactant concentrations
D) the rate of a first-order reaction does depend on reactant concentrations; the rate of a second-order reaction does not depend on reactant concentrations
Explanation
[Solution] $t_{1/2} = 0.693/k$ for first order; $t_{1/2} = 1/(k[A]_0)$ for second order. Answer (2).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.