Reaction Vessel ($A + B \rightarrow AB$)
A
B
AB

Concept Quiz

The Principles of Collision Theory

For a chemical reaction to occur, three specific criteria must be met:

  • 1. Collision: The reacting particles must physically collide.
  • 2. Activation Energy ($E_a$): The collision must possess enough kinetic energy to break the old bonds.
  • 3. Correct Orientation: The molecules must collide in a specific geometric alignment (represented by the Steric Factor).
Arrhenius Equation:
$$ k = A e^{\frac{-E_a}{RT}} $$
$k$ = Rate Constant | $A$ = Frequency/Steric Factor | $E_a$ = Activation Energy | $T$ = Temp