Chemistry

Explain why the rate of the reaction between magnesium and
dilute hydrochloric acid is increased much more by changing the
magnesium from ribbon to powder than by doubling the
concentration*of*the*acid.

Reply 1

BankaiGintoki

Original post by Aytac

Use your collision theory knowledge - reactions are successful if particles collide with energy greater than or equal to activation energy and with correct orientation.
Magnesium powder - has a greater surface area, there is greater frequency of collisions with the dilute hydrochloric acid
The greater increase in surface area is more than doubling the rate of reaction
Whereas double the concentration of acid, would only double the rate of reaction