How Do Pressure Gradients Affect Reaction Kinetics?
Reaction kinetics are directly influenced by pressure gradients. Higher pressures generally increase the frequency of collisions between reactant molecules, thus enhancing the reaction rate. However, if the pressure gradient is too steep, it can lead to non-uniform distribution of reactants, causing localized hotspots that may degrade the catalyst. Therefore, understanding and controlling pressure gradients is vital for optimizing reaction kinetics and ensuring the longevity of the catalyst.