Chemistry

Problem

A solution reaction has the slow elementary step

2\,X(\text{aq}) + Y(\text{aq}) \to \text{products}

, leading to rate =

k[X]^2[Y]

. A reaction mixture is prepared in

1.00\,\text{L}

of solution. An inert solvent is then added to double the total volume to

2.00\,\text{L}

while the amounts (moles) of

X

and

Y

remain the same. By what factor does the initial rate after dilution compare to the initial rate before dilution?