Arrhenius temperature dependence
Many rate constants follow an exponential temperature model over a limited range.
Key knowledge
The Arrhenius model describes many reaction rate constants using a prefactor and an activation-energy parameter. A straight-line dependence of ln k on reciprocal absolute temperature supports the model over the measured range; it does not establish one universal mechanism.
Values and equations
k = A exp(−Ea / RT)
- k
- rate constant depend on the rate law
- A
- prefactor same as k
- Ea
- molar Arrhenius activation-energy parameter J mol⁻¹
- R
- molar gas constant J mol⁻¹ K⁻¹
- T
- absolute temperature K
Conditions and scope
- Parameters describe the stated reaction and temperature range; mechanisms or transport limitations can change.
- The activation energy and RT must use matching molar energy units.
Sources · 1
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
Inspected source Arrhenius expression and temperature-dependence explanation.
2026-10-10 · Checked model range and rate-constant units; no universal positive activation-energy claim.
Entry details
Permanent link to this entry ↗- Record identity
- chem-arrhenius-model
- Revision
- university-reference.1
- Structured reference record
- University reference