Reaction rates and temperature

Simulation

Intuitively we understand that the higher the temperature the faster a chemical reaction. But what's actually happening at a molecular level?

Reaction rates and temperature

Instructions

  1. Run the simulation for "low" temperature for 20 seconds.

  2. Hit the pause button.

  3. Change the temperature to "medium" temperature.

  4. Run the simulation for another 20 seconds.

  5. Hit the pause button.

  6. Change the temperature to "high" temperature.

  7. Run the simulation for another 20 seconds.

Discussion question

  • Using everyday language that you might use with your grandparents, explain to the person sitting next to you how temperature affects the rate of chemical reactions.

Details

Curriculum Icon
NGSS
  • DCI | PS1.B: The total number of each type of atom is conserved, and thus the mass does not change.
Learning Objectives Icon
Learning Objectives

Understand the relationship between rates of reaction and temperature.

Conepts Icon
Concepts
  • Chemical reaction

  • Reaction rate

  • Temperature