If the half-life (t1/2) for a first order reaction is 1 minute, then the time required for 99.9% completion of the reaction is closest to:
Correct Answer :
10 minutes
Solution :
The correct answer is 10 minutes.
Step-by-Step Derivation and Explanation:
1. Formula for First-Order Kinetics:
For a first-order chemical reaction, the rate constant is related to the half-life () by the following relation:
Given that the half-life :
2. Finding the Time Required for 99.9% Completion:
Let the initial concentration of the reactant be .
If the reaction is 99.9% complete, the amount of reactant consumed is 99.9.
Therefore, the remaining concentration of reactant at time , denoted as , is:
The integrated rate equation for a first-order reaction is:
Substitute the values into the equation:
Since and :
3. Simplifying the Calculation:
Note that .
Thus, the expression becomes:
This value is closest to 10 minutes.
Access expert-curated educational resources and study materials—completely free.
Create, conduct, and manage professional online assessments with Mindyard. Perfect for teachers and institutes.
Copyright © 2026 Mindyard. All Rights Reserved.