How does increasing the temperature of the reactants in a reaction affect the rate of said reaction?

This is a typical GCSE chemistry question relating to collision theory. Collision theory states that for a reaction to occur, the reactant particles must collide at a sufficient level of energy. To answer this question, we question how increasing the temperature affects how the reactant particles collide: -When temperature is higher, particles move faster -> There are more collisions per unit of time -> There are more sucessful collisions per unit time -When temperature is higher, particles contain more kinetic energy -> A greater proportion of collisions occur at sufficient energy to trigger a reaction per unit of time -Both factors work together to cause the rate of reaction to increase Exam Technique: -Display answer in a logical format to make it easier for examiner to mark -Per unit of time is highlighted due to its importance. Simply stating that there are more collisions is not sufficient to gain a mark, you must state that there are more collisions in a specified amount of time.

BP
Answered by Brian P. Chemistry tutor

2501 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain the need for a temperature compromise in the Haber Process: N2(g) + 3 H2(g) ⇌2 NH3(g) (ΔH = -92 kJ mol-1)


What is the concentration of 0.4 moles of 25cm3 ethanoic acid?


Ethane-1,2-diol can be dissolved in water to act as an anti-freeze in car radiators. Explain why ethane-1,2-diol is very soluble in water. (2)


How do you describe the greenhouse effect?


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