6 tips for teaching reaction rates using graphs

Chemists often represent the underlying models of chemical kinetics graphically, such as when plotting concentration v time or rate v time. Studies have shown that students have difficulties understanding rate and rate constant, and that graphical representations often make it more challenging.

This article discusses a study revealing students’ reasoning about reaction rate through an analysis of the graphical representations they chose to describe their underlying models of chemical kinetics.

You can also find useful teaching tips to incorporate into your own practice and help your students charm the topic of chemical kinetics.