1.9.1

Collision Theory

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Collision Theory

Collision theory is the theory of how reactions happen.

Illustrative background for When will a reaction happen?Illustrative background for When will a reaction happen? ?? "content

When will a reaction happen?

  • For a reaction between two molecules to happen, they must come into close proximity with each other.
  • For a particular reaction to happen, several conditions must be met:
    • The correct part of the molecules must collide.
    • The molecules must collide with enough energy to react.
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Steric factor

  • The steric factor is the fancy name for saying that the location of a collision matters.
  • For example, if you were trying to react the OH bond in ethanol (CH3CH2OH), a collision with the CH3 group wouldn't do anything.
Illustrative background for Activation energyIllustrative background for Activation energy ?? "content

Activation energy

  • The activation energy is the energy needed for a reaction to happen.
    • The activation energy is used to break the bonds in the reactants before new bonds can form in the products.
  • For both reasons of activation energy and steric factor, most collisions do not result in a reaction.

Jump to other topics

1Physical Chemistry

1.1Atoms, Molecules & Stoichiometry

1.2Atomic Structure

1.3Chemical Bonding

1.4States of Matter

1.5Chemical Energetics

1.6Electrochemistry

1.7Equilibria

1.8Partition Coefficient

1.9Reaction Kinetics

2Inorganic Chemistry

3Organic Chemistry & Analysis

3.1Introduction to Organic Chemistry

3.2Hydrocarbons

3.3Halogen Derivatives

3.4Hydroxy Compounds

3.5Carbonyl Compounds

3.6Carboxylic Acids & Derivatives

3.7Nitrogen Compounds

3.8Polymerisation

3.9Analytical Techniques

3.10Organic Synthesis

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