The rate of a zero-order reaction is affected by the concentration of the reactant and the temperature.

In a zero-order reaction, the rate remains constant and is independent of the reactant’s concentration. This indicates that altering the concentration of the reactant does not influence the speed at which the reaction proceeds. However, it is important to note that the concentration of the reactant still plays a significant role. Specifically, the initial rate of a zero-order reaction is directly proportional to the initial concentration of the reactant. The rate of a zero-order reaction can be expressed by the equation:

where $k$ represents the rate constant. The value of the rate constant $k$ is influenced by the initial concentration of the reactant. Thus, while the overall rate does not change with variations in the concentration, the initial rate is dependent on the initial concentration.

Temperature is another critical factor impacting the rate of a zero-order reaction. Similar to other chemical reactions, an increase in temperature leads to an acceleration of the zero-order reaction. This acceleration occurs because higher temperatures enhance the kinetic energy of the molecules, resulting in a greater frequency of successful collisions among reactant molecules. The relationship between temperature and the rate of a zero-order reaction is often described by the Arrhenius equation, which connects the rate constant $k$ to temperature.

Furthermore, the rate of a zero-order reaction can also be influenced by the presence of a catalyst. A catalyst is a substance that increases the reaction rate by providing an alternative pathway with a lower activation energy. In the context of a zero-order reaction, the introduction of a catalyst enhances the reaction rate by increasing the rate constant $k$.

In summary, the rate of a zero-order reaction is influenced by the concentration of the reactant, the temperature, and the presence of a catalyst. While the rate itself is independent of the reactant’s concentration, the initial rate is directly proportional to that initial concentration. Increasing the temperature or adding a catalyst will raise the reaction rate by increasing the rate constant $k$.