Science Common Sense

139 - How does temperature affect chemical reactions?

Temperature affects chemical reactions in three main ways:

1. Speed: Higher temperatures usually make chemical reactions happen faster, while lower temperatures slow them down.
2. Energy: Some reactions need a certain amount of heat energy to start or keep going. If it's too cold, the reaction might not happen.
3. Direction: Temperature can even decide the direction of a reaction. Some reactions might happen in one direction at high temperatures and the opposite direction at low temperatures.

Think of it like cooking. When you heat food, the molecules start moving faster, making the cooking process quicker. But if it's too cold, the food might not cook properly.