while measuring the effect of a catalyst on the reaction rate of two reactants , why would a chemist control the temperature,pressure and concentration of two reactants?
A chemist would control the temperature, pressure, and concentration of two reactants when measuring the effect of a catalyst on the reaction rate in order to ensure accurate and reliable results.
1. Temperature: Temperature plays a crucial role in chemical reactions. Increasing the temperature generally leads to an increase in reaction rate, as it provides more energy for the reactant particles to collide with enough energy to overcome the activation energy barrier. By controlling the temperature, the chemist can create a consistent environment for the reaction and accurately measure the effect of the catalyst.
2. Pressure: Pressure affects the reaction rate, especially in gaseous reactions. Increasing the pressure typically leads to an increase in reaction rate because it enhances the frequency of molecular collisions, resulting in more chances for successful collisions. By controlling the pressure, the chemist can maintain a consistent reaction environment and accurately observe the impact of the catalyst on the reaction rate.
3. Concentration: The concentration of reactants also affects the reaction rate. Higher concentrations provide more reactant particles, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful collisions and leading to a higher reaction rate. By controlling the concentration, the chemist can ensure that the number of reactant particles remains constant and accurately determine the influence of the catalyst on the reaction rate.
By carefully controlling these factors, the chemist can isolate the impact of the catalyst on the reaction rate and determine how it enhances or inhibits the chemical reaction. This allows for a clearer understanding of the role of the catalyst and assists in the development of more efficient and selective catalysts for various industrial and scientific applications.