What does the rate of chemical reactions depend on?

The rate of chemical reactions depends on the temperature, concentration of the reactants, size of the particles reacting and whether there are any catalysts present.

When the temperature is increased, the average kinetic energy of the particles present is increased. When the particles have higher kinetic energy, they move faster and are therefore more likely to collide. The increased temperature also leads to more particles having sufficient energy to react.

When the concentration of reactants is increased, there are more collisions as there are more particles in close proximity to each other.

Collisions (reactions) occur at the surface of particles. The smaller the particle size, the more surface area there is. Because there is more surface area, the reaction will take place more quickly.

Catalysts provide an alternate reaction pathway with a lower activation energy than otherwise required. This means that particles do not need as much energy to react when they collide and therefore increases the rate of the reaction.

EF
Answered by Emma F. Chemistry tutor

28244 Views

See similar Chemistry IB tutors

Related Chemistry IB answers

All answers ▸

Which are four factors affecting the rate of a chemical reaction and how do these affect the rate constant of the reaction?


Sodium and sodium iodide can both conduct electricity when molten, but only sodium can conduct electricity when solid. Explain this difference in conductivity in terms of the structures of sodium and sodium iodide.


What is a difference between gas and liquid and solid on a molecular level?


Hydrogen bromide forms a strong acid when dissolved in water whereas hydrogen fluoride forms a weak acid. Distinguish between the terms strong acid and weak acid. State equations to describe the dissociation of each acid in aqueous solution. [3]


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences