Subjects

Careers

Open the App

Subjects

AQA GCSE Chemistry: Rate of Reaction & Equilibrium - Fun Study Guide

84

0

user profile picture

narisse

13/08/2025

Chemistry

AQA GCSE CHEMISTRY - RATE AND EXTENT OF CHEMICAL CHANGE (4.6)

2,025

13 Aug 2025

7 pages

AQA GCSE Chemistry: Rate of Reaction & Equilibrium - Fun Study Guide

Rate and Extent of Chemical Changeis a comprehensive guide... Show more

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Factors Affecting Reaction Rates and Equilibrium

This page continues the discussion of key terms and concepts related to rates of reaction and equilibrium in GCSE Chemistry. It elaborates on the effects of various factors on reaction rates and equilibrium positions.

Example: Increasing the concentration of reactants in solution brings reacting particles closer together, leading to more frequent collisions and a faster reaction rate.

Vocabulary: Equilibrium - In a closed system, equilibrium is reached when the forward and reverse reactions occur at exactly the same rate.

Definition: Le Chatelier's principle - This principle states that if a reaction at equilibrium is subjected to a change in concentration, temperature, or pressure, the position of equilibrium will shift to counteract the change.

The page provides a comprehensive overview of how concentration, pressure, surface area, and temperature affect both reaction rates and equilibrium positions, which is essential knowledge for AQA GCSE Chemistry equilibrium questions.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Calculating Rates of Reaction and Practical Applications

This page focuses on the practical aspects of studying reaction rates, including calculations and experimental procedures. It introduces the formulas for calculating mean reaction rates, which are crucial for solving rates of reaction exam questions GCSE.

Highlight: Mean rate of reaction can be calculated using the formula: quantity of reactant used / time taken or quantity of product formed / time taken.

The page also outlines a required practical experiment involving the reaction between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid. This experiment demonstrates the effect of concentration on reaction rate, providing hands-on experience with concepts discussed in rates of reaction BBC Bitesize KS3.

Example: In the practical, a cross drawn on paper becomes obscured as sulfur precipitates during the reaction. The time taken for the cross to disappear is used to measure the reaction rate.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Experimental Procedures and Conclusions

This final page continues the description of practical experiments, focusing on the reaction between magnesium and sulfuric acid. It provides step-by-step instructions for conducting the experiment and collecting data on gas production rates.

Highlight: The experiment demonstrates that increasing the concentration of sulfuric acid leads to a faster reaction rate, as there are more reactant particles in a given volume, resulting in more frequent collisions.

These practical experiments are essential for understanding the principles of rate of reaction Chemistry GCSE Combined Science. They provide concrete examples of how changing reactant concentrations affects reaction rates, reinforcing the theoretical concepts covered earlier in the document.

The practical work described on this page helps students develop the skills needed to answer AQA GCSE Chemistry Rate of Reaction Higher Tier questions effectively, by providing hands-on experience with the concepts they will encounter in exams.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Page 4: Practical Applications and Collision Theory

This section provides practical examples and deeper exploration of collision theory, particularly useful for Rate of reaction Chemistry GCSE.

Example: A detailed experimental procedure using sulfuric acid and magnesium ribbon demonstrates how concentration affects reaction rate.

Definition: Collision theory emphasizes the importance of particles colliding with sufficient energy for reactions to occur.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Page 5: Catalysis and Reversible Reactions

The content covers catalytic processes and introduces reversible reactions, essential for understanding Le Chatelier's Principle GCSE.

Example: Iron beads are used as catalysts to increase available surface area for reactions.

Definition: Reversible reactions are chemical processes that can proceed in both forward and backward directions.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Page 6: Equilibrium Systems

This section focuses on equilibrium concepts, particularly relevant for Equilibrium GCSE Chemistry AQA.

Definition: Dynamic equilibrium occurs in closed systems where forward and backward reaction rates become equal.

Example: The behavior of anhydrous copper(II) sulfate in water demonstrates both exothermic reactions and reversible processes.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

The Rate and Extent of Chemical Change (4.6) (1)

This page introduces key vocabulary essential for understanding rates of reaction and equilibrium in GCSE Chemistry. It covers fundamental concepts that form the basis for more complex topics in chemical kinetics and equilibrium studies.

Vocabulary: Activation Energy - The minimum amount of energy particles must possess to react when they collide.

Definition: Collision theory - This theory states that chemical reactions can only occur when reacting particles collide with sufficient energy.

Highlight: Catalysts increase reaction rates by providing an alternative pathway with lower activation energy, without being consumed in the process.

The page also introduces the effects of concentration, pressure, and temperature on equilibrium, which are crucial for understanding Le Chatelier's Principle GCSE AQA.



We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

Chemistry

2,025

13 Aug 2025

7 pages

AQA GCSE Chemistry: Rate of Reaction & Equilibrium - Fun Study Guide

Rate and Extent of Chemical Change is a comprehensive guide covering reaction rates, equilibrium, and factors affecting chemical reactions. The content explores fundamental concepts essential for GCSE Chemistry and Combined Science understanding.

  • Detailed coverage of collision theory and its relationship... Show more

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Factors Affecting Reaction Rates and Equilibrium

This page continues the discussion of key terms and concepts related to rates of reaction and equilibrium in GCSE Chemistry. It elaborates on the effects of various factors on reaction rates and equilibrium positions.

Example: Increasing the concentration of reactants in solution brings reacting particles closer together, leading to more frequent collisions and a faster reaction rate.

Vocabulary: Equilibrium - In a closed system, equilibrium is reached when the forward and reverse reactions occur at exactly the same rate.

Definition: Le Chatelier's principle - This principle states that if a reaction at equilibrium is subjected to a change in concentration, temperature, or pressure, the position of equilibrium will shift to counteract the change.

The page provides a comprehensive overview of how concentration, pressure, surface area, and temperature affect both reaction rates and equilibrium positions, which is essential knowledge for AQA GCSE Chemistry equilibrium questions.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Calculating Rates of Reaction and Practical Applications

This page focuses on the practical aspects of studying reaction rates, including calculations and experimental procedures. It introduces the formulas for calculating mean reaction rates, which are crucial for solving rates of reaction exam questions GCSE.

Highlight: Mean rate of reaction can be calculated using the formula: quantity of reactant used / time taken or quantity of product formed / time taken.

The page also outlines a required practical experiment involving the reaction between sodium thiosulfate and hydrochloric acid. This experiment demonstrates the effect of concentration on reaction rate, providing hands-on experience with concepts discussed in rates of reaction BBC Bitesize KS3.

Example: In the practical, a cross drawn on paper becomes obscured as sulfur precipitates during the reaction. The time taken for the cross to disappear is used to measure the reaction rate.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Experimental Procedures and Conclusions

This final page continues the description of practical experiments, focusing on the reaction between magnesium and sulfuric acid. It provides step-by-step instructions for conducting the experiment and collecting data on gas production rates.

Highlight: The experiment demonstrates that increasing the concentration of sulfuric acid leads to a faster reaction rate, as there are more reactant particles in a given volume, resulting in more frequent collisions.

These practical experiments are essential for understanding the principles of rate of reaction Chemistry GCSE Combined Science. They provide concrete examples of how changing reactant concentrations affects reaction rates, reinforcing the theoretical concepts covered earlier in the document.

The practical work described on this page helps students develop the skills needed to answer AQA GCSE Chemistry Rate of Reaction Higher Tier questions effectively, by providing hands-on experience with the concepts they will encounter in exams.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 4: Practical Applications and Collision Theory

This section provides practical examples and deeper exploration of collision theory, particularly useful for Rate of reaction Chemistry GCSE.

Example: A detailed experimental procedure using sulfuric acid and magnesium ribbon demonstrates how concentration affects reaction rate.

Definition: Collision theory emphasizes the importance of particles colliding with sufficient energy for reactions to occur.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Page 5: Catalysis and Reversible Reactions

The content covers catalytic processes and introduces reversible reactions, essential for understanding Le Chatelier's Principle GCSE.

Example: Iron beads are used as catalysts to increase available surface area for reactions.

Definition: Reversible reactions are chemical processes that can proceed in both forward and backward directions.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 6: Equilibrium Systems

This section focuses on equilibrium concepts, particularly relevant for Equilibrium GCSE Chemistry AQA.

Definition: Dynamic equilibrium occurs in closed systems where forward and backward reaction rates become equal.

Example: The behavior of anhydrous copper(II) sulfate in water demonstrates both exothermic reactions and reversible processes.

The Rate and Extent of Chemical
Change (4.6) (1)
▼ KEY VOCABULARY
• Acivation Energy - the minimum amount of energy needed that particles mu

The Rate and Extent of Chemical Change (4.6) (1)

This page introduces key vocabulary essential for understanding rates of reaction and equilibrium in GCSE Chemistry. It covers fundamental concepts that form the basis for more complex topics in chemical kinetics and equilibrium studies.

Vocabulary: Activation Energy - The minimum amount of energy particles must possess to react when they collide.

Definition: Collision theory - This theory states that chemical reactions can only occur when reacting particles collide with sufficient energy.

Highlight: Catalysts increase reaction rates by providing an alternative pathway with lower activation energy, without being consumed in the process.

The page also introduces the effects of concentration, pressure, and temperature on equilibrium, which are crucial for understanding Le Chatelier's Principle GCSE AQA.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user