Reaction rates refer to the speed at which a chemical reaction occurs. They can be influenced by various factors, including temperature, concentration of reactants, and the presence of catalysts. A higher temperature typically increases the reaction rate, as particles move faster and collide more often. Measuring reaction rates can help scientists understand how different conditions affect chemical processes. For example, in the study of enzymes, which are biological catalysts, researchers examine how temperature and pH levels impact their efficiency. Understanding these rates is crucial in fields like pharmacology and environmental science.