Several factors affect the rate of a reaction. It is important to know these factors so that reaction

rates can be controlled. This is particularly important when it comes to industrial reactions, so

that productivity can be maximized. The following are some of the factors that affect the rate

of a reaction.                                 

1. Nature of reactants

Substances have different chemical properties and therefore react differently and at different

rates.

2. Concentration (or pressure in the case of gases)

As the concentration of the reactants increases, so does the reaction rate.

3. Surface area of solid reactants

Increasing the surface area of the reactants (e.g. if a solid reactant is finely broken up)

will increase the reaction rate.

4. Temperature

If the temperature of the reaction increases, so does the rate of the reaction. Due to the increased Collision between reactant particles

5. Catalyst

Adding a catalyst increases the reaction rate. As it lowers the activation energy for the reaction

References 

1. Kevin Cunningham. Applications of Reaction Rate. Journal of Chemical Education 2007, 84 (3)

2.Rice and Gershinowitz, J. Chem. Phys. 3rd Edition, 482 (1935)

3.M. Mann:Physical science 12 textbook and workbook October 16-1