AP Chemistry Flashcards: Thermodynamic and Kinetic Control
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is 'kinetic control'?
Kinetic control describes processes that are thermodynamically favored but do not proceed at a measurable rate due to kinetic factors like high activation energy.
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What is 'kinetic control'?
Kinetic control describes processes that are thermodynamically favored but do not proceed at a measurable rate due to kinetic factors like high activation energy.
What is activation energy?
Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy required for reactants to transform into products, and a high activation energy is a common reason for kinetic control.
If a reaction is spontaneous but extremely slow, what concept best explains this phenomenon?
The concept of 'kinetic control' explains this, as the reaction is thermodynamically favored but hindered by a high activation energy, resulting in a very slow rate.
What is the relationship between thermodynamics and kinetics in determining if a reaction will proceed?
Thermodynamics determines if a reaction is favored to occur, while kinetics (specifically activation energy) determines the rate at which it will actually proceed.
Does being 'thermodynamically favored' guarantee a reaction will occur quickly?
No. Many processes that are thermodynamically favored occur at extremely slow rates or not to any measurable extent because they are under kinetic control.
A mixture of reactants is stable for years, despite calculations showing the reaction to form products is highly favored. Why?
The reaction is under kinetic control. A very high activation energy prevents the thermodynamically favored reaction from occurring at a measurable rate.
What is a common reason for a process to be under kinetic control?
High activation energy is a common reason for a process to be under kinetic control, effectively preventing the reaction from proceeding at a significant rate.
Define a thermodynamically favored process.
A thermodynamically favored process is one that has the potential to occur without external energy input, though it may not happen at a measurable rate.
Why might a thermodynamically favored reaction not occur at a measurable rate?
A thermodynamically favored reaction might not occur at a measurable rate because it is under 'kinetic control,' often due to a high activation energy that must be overcome.
Is a kinetically controlled process that is not proceeding considered to be at equilibrium?
No, a kinetically controlled process that is not proceeding at a measurable rate is not at equilibrium.