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Rates and temperature

The greater the of , the greater the rate of reaction. If the of the reaction mixture is increased:

  • move more quickly
  • the of the particles increases
  • the frequency of successful collisions between reactant particles increases
  • the proportion of collisions which are successful increases
  • the rate of reaction increases

Question

Explain what is meant by a 'successful' collision.

Graphs

The rates of two or more reactions can be compared using a graph of or of formed against time. The graph shows this for two reactions.

Graph of total mass of product against time from start of reaction, for high and low temperature.
Figure caption,
Comparing two reactions - the higher the temperature, the greater the rate of reaction

The of the line is equal to the rate of reaction. The faster reaction at the higher temperature:

  • gives a steeper line
  • finishes sooner