Incorporate collision frequency, activation energy, and the steric factor into a comprehensive model of reaction rates.
Diagram showing proper vs improper orientation.
Mechanism diagram showing proper and improper orientation of an OH- ion colliding with a bromoethane molecule. Top path …
Introduces collision frequency (Z) and the energy barrier.
Developed by Max Trautz and William Lewis, collision theory provides a powerful kinetic perspective on how chemical reactions occur. Based on the kinetic theory of gases, it assumes reactant molecules act as hard spheres and that a reaction can only occur when these spheres physically collide with one another.
Introduces the requirement for proper molecular orientation (Factor P).
The equation predicts rates accurately for simple atoms, but shows significant deviations for complex molecules. Why? Because a high-energy collision does not guarantee a reaction if the molecules hit each other at the wrong angle.
Test the dual requirements of Collision Theory.
According to collision theory, what two factors are strictly required for a molecular collision to result in a chemical reaction (an effective collision)?