How do temperature and pressure affect chemical reactions?

How do temperature and pressure affect chemical reactions?

Temperature and pressure can significantly influence the rate and direction of chemical reactions. Higher temperatures usually increase reaction rates by providing more energy to the molecules, while pressure can affect reactions involving gases by shifting equilibrium.

Can you explain why higher temperatures speed up reactions?

Certainly! Higher temperatures increase the kinetic energy of molecules, leading to more frequent and forceful collisions. This increases the likelihood of overcoming the activation energy barrier, resulting in a faster reaction.

What about pressure? How does it change reactions?

Pressure mainly affects reactions involving gases. Increasing pressure compresses the gas molecules, leading to more collisions and potentially shifting the equilibrium position of the reaction, favoring the side with fewer gas molecules.

Are there any exceptions to these rules?

Yes, there are exceptions. Some reactions may slow down with increased temperature if they are exothermic, and certain reactions may not be significantly affected by pressure if they involve solids or liquids.