Chap 3(Activation energy)

Question 1

When reactant molecules enter a reaction does the reaction occur suddenly? If no, why not.

Answer 1

No, they go into a high energy transition called transition state and then breaks down into products.

Question 2

What is the activation barrier?

Answer 2

The barrier which the particles must overcome in order to proceed with the reaction.

Question 3

define activation energy

Answer 3

Difference between the energy of the transition state and the energy of either the reactants or the products

Question 4

For an energy releasing reaction, what can be said about the activation energy for forward reaction and reverse. What about energy requiring

Answer 4

Forward is much less than reverse. The opposite is true.

Question 5

What occurs if molecules need extra energy to overcome the activation barrier?

Answer 5

They must collide with one another in order to get that energy

Question 6

Does every collision of particles produce a reaction? Why or why not?

Answer 6

No, if they do not obtain enough energy to overcome the activation barrier then they will not react.