5 x 1 hour lessons

This module explores how and why chemical reactions happen at different rates. You'll begin by learning how to measure the rate of a reaction and how rate changes with concentration, temperature, and the presence of a catalyst. You'll be introduced to the rate equation and rate constant, and practise determining orders of reaction from experimental data.

The module also covers the use of concentration–time and rate–concentration graphs, half-life calculations for first-order reactions, and how to use these to identify reaction order. Finally, you'll explore the Arrhenius equation and use it to calculate activation energy and understand how temperature affects rate quantitatively.

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By the end of this module, you’ll be able to:

• Define rate of reaction and describe how it can be measured

• Write and interpret rate equations

• Determine orders of reaction from experimental data

• Use concentration–time and rate–concentration graphs to deduce reaction order

• Understand and apply the concept of half-life for first-order reactions

• Use the Arrhenius equation to calculate activation energy and explain temperature effects on rate