17-2-factors-affecting-reaction-rates_summary

The passage discusses the factors affecting the rates of chemical reactions, including the chemical nature, physical state, temperature, concentration, and the presence of a catalyst. 1. Chemical Nature: The rate of a reaction depends on the nature of the reacting substances. The identity of the reactants plays a significant role in determining the rate of the reaction. 2. Physical State: A chemical reaction occurs only at the interface between the different phases (solid, liquid, gaseous, dissolved) of the reactants. The rate of the reaction is influenced by the size of the reactants' particles. Generally, smaller particles have a greater surface area and react more quickly because more of the reactant is available for the reaction to occur. 3. Temperature: Chemical reactions typically occur faster at higher temperatures. Increasing the temperature by 10 °C usually doubles the reaction rate. 4. Concentration: The rates of many reactions depend on the concentration of the reactants. Increasing the concentration usually results in a faster reaction rate. 5. Catalyst: Substances that function to increase the rate of a reaction are called catalysts. An example given is the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, which occurs slowly under typical conditions, but rapidly when introduced to an open wound due to the presence of catalysts within the wound's tissues. The passage also provides links to interactive simulations and videos for further exploration on how these factors influence reaction rates.