Arrhenius Rate Calculator

Estimate rate constants across temperatures with confidence easily. Compare scenarios using units, logs, and graphs. Download tables to share results with your team fast.

Calculator

Choose single-point or sweep mode, then enter values. Temperature sweep builds a table for exporting.

Sweep generates multiple rows from start to end.
Must be positive.
Displayed with k; not used in math.
Must be positive.
Converted internally to J/mol.
Inputs convert to kelvin for computation.
Used in single-point mode.
Start value in selected units.
End value in selected units.
Step in chosen units (°C step equals 1 K).
Reset

Formula used

The calculator uses the Arrhenius relationship: k = A · exp(−Ea / (R · T))

How to use this calculator

  1. Select Single temperature or Temperature sweep.
  2. Enter A and Ea with correct units.
  3. Choose the temperature unit, then enter temperature values.
  4. Press Calculate to show results above the form.
  5. Use Download CSV or Download PDF to export.

Example data table

A Ea Temperature k
1.20e13 1/s 75 kJ/mol 298.15 K ~7.50e-1
5.00e10 1/s 50 kJ/mol 350 K ~1.71e3
2.50e12 1/s 90 kJ/mol 450 K ~9.15e1

Values are illustrative; your results depend on inputs and units.

Arrhenius rate concepts

1) Why temperature changes reaction speed

Many reactions require molecules to pass an energy barrier before products form. As temperature rises, a larger fraction of molecules has enough energy to cross that barrier, so the measured rate constant often increases rapidly. This calculator translates that temperature sensitivity into a rate constant you can use in kinetic models, simulations, and lab calculations.

2) The meaning of the pre-exponential factor

The pre-exponential factor A groups together collision frequency, orientation effects, and other influences that do not appear explicitly in the exponential term. Its units match the units of the rate constant, so a first‑order process typically uses s⁻¹, while bimolecular processes often use concentration‑based units.

3) Activation energy and sensitivity

Activation energy Ea controls how strongly k responds to temperature. Higher Ea makes the exponential term steeper, meaning small temperature changes can cause large differences in rate. The calculator accepts J/mol, kJ/mol, or eV per molecule and converts internally to J/mol.

4) Using a temperature sweep for planning

The sweep mode builds a table of k(T) values over a range. This is helpful when you need to plan experiments, compare operating setpoints, or generate inputs for numerical solvers. You can export the sweep as CSV for spreadsheets or PDF for reports.

5) Interpreting ln(k) and log10(k)

Many datasets are analyzed using the linearized Arrhenius form by plotting ln(k) versus 1/T. Reporting ln(k) and log10(k) also helps compare values that span multiple orders of magnitude. The calculator provides both for quick review.

6) Half-life estimate for first-order kinetics

If the reaction behaves as first order, the half-life is t1/2 = ln(2)/k. This is a convenient way to translate a rate constant into a time scale. When your process is not first order, treat this number as an approximate comparison rather than a strict prediction.

7) Typical ranges and practical checks

In many gas‑phase or solution reactions, Ea commonly falls between about 10–200 kJ/mol, while A for first‑order steps can range from roughly 108 to 1015 s⁻¹. If your output looks extreme, confirm unit choices, temperature conversion, and the sign of the exponent.

8) Reporting and reproducibility

Good kinetic reporting includes the values of A, Ea, the temperature range, and the assumed mechanism. Exported tables from this calculator capture the inputs alongside computed results, helping you document modeling assumptions and reproduce analyses later.

FAQs

1) What is the Arrhenius equation used here?

The calculator uses k = A · exp(−Ea/(R·T)) with R in J/mol·K and T in kelvin. Ea is converted to J/mol from your selected unit.

2) Which temperature unit should I enter?

Select K, °C, or °F, then enter temperatures in that unit. The tool converts values to kelvin internally, so the physics remains consistent.

3) Can I use eV for activation energy?

Yes. Choose “eV/molecule” and enter Ea in electronvolts per molecule. The calculator converts to J/mol using the elementary charge and Avogadro’s number.

4) What do the A units mean in the form?

A units are displayed with k for clarity. The computation uses the numeric A value, so you should select units that match your reaction order and your intended interpretation.

5) Why is my k extremely small at low temperatures?

At low T, the term exp(−Ea/(R·T)) can be very small, especially for large Ea. Verify you did not enter Ea in kJ/mol while selecting J/mol.

6) Is the half-life always valid?

No. The shown half-life assumes first-order behavior: t1/2 = ln(2)/k. For other reaction orders or complex mechanisms, use it only as a rough comparison.

7) How many rows can a sweep generate?

To keep pages responsive, the sweep is limited to 5000 rows. If you hit the limit, increase the step size or narrow the temperature range.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.