A first-order reaction is not always slower than a second-order reaction; it depends on the concentrations of the reactants involved. In general, second-order reactions have a rate that is proportional to the square of the concentration, while first-order reactions are directly proportional to concentration. When both reactant concentrations are less than 1, the squared concentration of a second-order reaction can result in a smaller rate compared to a first-order reaction. This relationship can be understood through collision theory, which considers how reactant concentrations affect reaction rates. Therefore, the comparison of reaction speeds is context-dependent.