Question

A certain reaction is known to proceed slowly at room temperature. Is it possible to make the reaction proceed at a faster rate without changing the temperature?

Short answer

Yes, it is possible to make the reaction proceed at a faster rate without changing the temperature. This can be achieved by introducing a catalyst into the reaction or by influencing other factors such as increasing the concentration of reactants, the pressure (for gases), or the surface area of a solid reactant.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Basics

Before answering the question, it's important to understand that in Chemistry, the rate of a reaction can be altered without necessarily changing the temperature. This is possible by influencing other factors that could affect the reaction rate.

Introduce a Catalyst

A catalyst is a substance that can expedite a reaction without being used up in the process. It accomplishes this by reducing the amount of energy required for the reaction to occur, facilitating a faster reaction rate.

Other Possible Ways

Adding a catalyst isn't the only way to make a reaction proceed faster at a constant temperature. Other ways include increasing the concentration of reactants, the pressure (for gases), or the surface area of a solid reactant.