First-order parallel and consecutive reaction mechanisms — Isosbestic points criterium

Abstract

A criterium for the selection of reaction mechanism derived from a condition for isosbestic points occurrence is presented. Analytical relationships involving the molar absorption coefficients of the species, which participate in a mechanism of parallel first-order reactions and the corresponding rate coefficients, are also reported. A model system of four species that present overlapping absorption spectra may correspond to the reactant and products of a system of parallel or consecutive first-order reactions. In the first case, under experimental conditions in which the absorbances are additive, the presence of an isosbestic point in the spectrum of the reaction mixture at a given wavelength leads to a time-independent ratio of the degree of advancement of reaction variables. From this, relevant kinetic information may be extracted, namely, the ratio of the reaction rate coefficients. Moreover, the occurrence of isosbestic points allows discarding the second mechanism. This conclusion is independent of the number of absorbing species. Model calculated examples show the application of the equations here derived. The resolution for the general case of mechanisms of N first-order reactions is provided.Key words: chemical kinetics, time-resolved absorption spectra, reaction mechanism.