In this episode, we explore the fundamentals of differential rate laws — the mathematical expressions that describe how the speed of a chemical reaction depends on the concentration of its reactants. We break down the general rate law equation, Rate = k[A]^m[B]^n, explaining the role of the rate constant k, reaction orders, and how to calculate the overall reaction order. Through two fully worked examples, you will learn how to use the method of initial rates to experimentally determine reaction orders and solve for the rate constant, including how to derive its units through dimensional analysis.