Keq vs rate constant

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shhhimstudying

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10+ Year Member
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I know that only temperature affects the equilibrium constant but what about the rate constant lower case k?
Is temperature and catalysts...if so why?
 
yes rate constant k is affected by temperature. You can see this by examining the arrhenius equation: k= Ae^ -(Ea/RT). as T increases k increases. In order for a rxn to occur the reactants have to gain enough energy to overcome the activation barrier (Ea). This energy comes from the reactant molecules colliding w. each other w. sufficient energy and proper orientation. Increasing temperature will increase the frequency of these collisions.