Einzelreaktion

Einzelreaktion is a German term used primarily in chemistry and related fields to denote a single chemical reaction, usually studied in isolation. The term implies that the observed transformation occurs without considering a network of concurrent or sequential reactions.

In reaction kinetics, eine Einzelreaktion refers to a single-step process for which a rate law can be defined, such as first-order: rate = k[A], or second-order: rate = k[A][B]. It is often used in teaching to illustrate fundamental principles before introducing more complex, multi-step mechanisms.

It serves as a contrast to more complex situations described as multi-step reactions, reaction networks, or cascade reactions, where intermediates and parallel pathways influence the overall dynamics. Unrealistic but useful simplifications assume ideal conditions to treat a single reaction in a closed system.

Outside chemistry, the term may appear in physics or materials science to denote a single, discrete reaction event within a broader process. Because German scientific language is diverse, the exact meaning of Einzelreaktion can vary by discipline and author.

See also: reaction kinetics, rate law, first-order reaction, second-order reaction, reaction mechanism.