Chapter 14 - Boltzmann factor and activation energy Flashcards
What is the average thermal energy per particle?
KT
What is K?
Boltzmann’s constant, 1.38 x 10^ -23
What is the symbol for activation energy?
ε
What is activation energy?
The energy needed to break bonds between particles in a given substance
The energy needed for a particular process to happen
How do particles get extra energy above the average particle energy?
Energy can be lost or gained in random collisions with other particles
Repeated gains in energy can lead to a high energy particle
What shape is the graph of boltzmann factor against temperature?
upwards S - shape
What is the Boltzmann factor?
The ratio of the numbers of particles in energy states ε joules apart
If there is a boltzmann factor of 10^-7
One in every 10^7 particles has the necessary activation energy
How can a reaction still happen even when the proportion of particles with the necessary energy is very small?
The rate of particle collisions is very high
What is the equation for finding the Boltzmann factor?
BF = e^(ε/KT)
