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

2942 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Define a hydrocarbon and explain the difference between alkenes and alkanes.


Explain, in terms of atoms, why steel is stronger than iron.


Explain why chlorine is more reactive than iodine(3 marks)


Explain why graphite conducts electricity. The answer should include structure and bonding of graphite.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning