Explain why increasing the temperature of a reaction increases the rate of the reaction (2)

By raising the temperature of the reaction mixture, the particles have more (kinetic) energy and so move around at a greater rate. This means there are more frequent collisions, due to the increased speed the particles are moving, and there are more successful collisions. This is because, for example, if the success rate was 1/3 and there was one collision there would be a 1/3 chance of it being a success. However, using the same probability, if there were three collisions then there would be a high chance that at least one of these collisions would be successful.

To sum up: (1) the particles have more energy and so (2) there are more frequent collisions and (3) overall there are more successful collisions.

(There are three marks available - but you only need to make two points to acheive all the marks!)

SH
Answered by Sam H. Chemistry tutor

2724 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between exothermic and endothermic reactions?


List the first 4 halogens as they appear in the periodic table as they appear. What does your answer suggest about their relative reactivity?


In fractional distillation the shorter hydrocarbons have lower boiling points and distil off first. Why?


How do you know if a molecule has ionic or covalent bonding?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning