Chemical Kinetics: Study Notes

Chemical Kinetics

Introduction to Chemical Kinetics

Chemical kinetics is a branch of chemistry that studies the rates at which chemical reactions occur and the factors that influence these rates. Understanding kinetics is essential for controlling reactions in industrial processes, biological systems, and environmental contexts.

• Definition: Chemical kinetics is the study of the speed (rate) of chemical reactions and the mechanisms by which they occur.

• Importance: Kinetics helps explain phenomena such as why cold-blooded animals (ectotherms) become lethargic at low temperatures and why certain reactions require catalysts.

• Example: The rate of metabolic reactions in lizards decreases as their body temperature drops, causing them to become less active or hibernate.

Additional info: Kinetics is distinct from thermodynamics, which tells us whether a reaction is possible, while kinetics tells us how fast it will proceed.