We have seen how experimental evidence leads to the derivation of the rate equation. In this section we will see how the study of the rate of reaction allows us to interpret what might be happening at a molecular level. By considering the sequence of bond breaking and making we can propose a reaction mechanism. The mechanism for a reaction is related to the rate equation and can only be determined from experimental evidence. It cannot be determined from the balanced chemical equation.
After working through this section you will be able to: