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The reaction of hydroxide ion with methyl iodide takes place in a single elementary step. The reactiKinetics Chemistry Question

Question

The reaction of hydroxide ion with methyl iodide takes place in a single elementary step. The reaction is faster when the carbon-12 isotope is present than when carbon-14 is present (k12C/k14C = 1.088). What is the principal reason for the difference in rates?
CH3I + OH– → CH3OH + I–

A.

The carbon nucleus is less stable in 14CH3I.

B.

The vibrational energies are lower in 14CH3I.

✓ Correct
C.

The molecule is less sterically hindered in 14CH3I.

D.

The carbon-iodine bond dissociation enthalpy is smaller in 14CH3I.

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