The antibiotic paromomycin (P) forms a complex with a particular 27-nucleotide RNA construct (R). Dissociation of this complex can be described schematically (in aqueous solution) as:
RP <----> R + P Kd= .520 at 25ºC
where the equilibrium constant KD is commonly referred to as the dissociation constant. Assuming one begins with 0.0780M of RP complex (only):
Determine the equilibrium amounts of [RP] and [P] at 25 ºC. ???
Suppose that the value of KD changes to 1.47* when the temperature is raised to 37 ºC. Does the equilibrium of part (a) shift to the right (R); shift to the left (L); or remained unchanged (U).
Is this process (reaction) exothermic or endothermic or is DH = zero at equilibrium (put correct answer/word in the blank)?
Starting from the final equilibrium amounts determined in part (a) at 25 ºC, determine the equilibrium amounts of [RP] and [P] if the temperature is raised to 37 ºC.
Hints: quadratics should use the positive roots and keep three significant digits. If pressed for time, set up rxn table/quadratics for partial credit.