The rate constant k is typically increased by:
1. Increasing the temperature of the reaction: The rate constant is directly proportional to the temperature of the reaction as described by the Arrhenius equation. An increase in temperature usually results in an increase in the rate constant.
2. Increasing the concentration of reactants: A higher concentration of reactants typically leads to a higher frequency of collisions, which can result in a higher reaction rate and an increase in the rate constant.
3. Adding a catalyst: A catalyst can provide an alternative reaction pathway with lower activation energy, which can increase the rate of the reaction and therefore the rate constant.