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-----Temperature rise as it relates to chemical reaction
Q. Can you please explain to me at what rate will a chemical reaction increase with each 10 °F increase. I am under the impression that for every 10 °F increase, the reaction doubles. Your assistance will be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
medical device company - Jensen Beach, FL, USA
2004
Higher temperatures mean more atomic movement, and consequently faster reactions. But I've never heard of that rule of thumb and would expect it to apply only to some chemical reactions and only over a narrow temperature band.
Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
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2004
A. The rule you are referring to is an Arhennius rate equation. It doesn't hold true for every reaction, and actually, it is 10 °C, not F.
James Totter, CEF
- Tallahassee, Florida
2004
Thanks, James.
Ted Mooney, P.E.
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey
Need quick confidential answers? $25
Need project assistance? $100/hr.
2004
A. Actually, it is 10 °C, not F.
James Watts- Navarre, Florida
2004
A. Andrew, as a rule of thumb, you are correct, but there are many exceptions and such a value should be used only as a guide. The kinetics of a reaction are governed by the Arrenhius equation, so you can do the sums there (remember the temperature factor is on degress absolute).
Trevor Crichton
R&D practical scientist
Chesham, Bucks, UK
2004
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