How this calculator works
Q10 expresses how much a rate changes for a 10-degree temperature rise. Use rates measured with the same units and comparable conditions. Celsius and kelvin temperature differences have the same size. A constant Q10 is an empirical approximation over a limited range; denaturation, phase changes or a changing mechanism may invalidate extrapolation. Values below one describe a rate that decreases as temperature rises.
Formula
Q10 = (r2/r1)^[10/(T2 - T1)]; r2 = r1 Q10^[(T2 - T1)/10].
Worked example
A rate rising from 5 to 10 over 20 to 30 C has Q10 = 2. Starting at rate 5 with Q10 = 2, a 20-degree rise predicts rate 20.
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Frequently asked questions
Must Q10 be between two and three?
No. That is a common approximation for some processes, not a universal limit.
Can I use time instead of rate?
For the same fixed endpoint, rate is proportional to reciprocal time; convert the times before entry.
Why reject equal temperatures?
Their rate ratio cannot determine the temperature sensitivity.