Kinetic assays are laboratory techniques used to measure the rate of a chemical reaction over time. These assays help scientists understand how quickly a reaction occurs and can provide insights into the activity of enzymes or other biological molecules. By monitoring changes in concentration or other properties, researchers can gather important data about reaction mechanisms and efficiency. In a kinetic assay, various conditions such as temperature, pH, and substrate concentration can be manipulated to observe their effects on reaction rates. This information is crucial for applications in fields like biochemistry, pharmacology, and drug development, where understanding reaction dynamics is essential for designing effective therapies.