Collision Theory Flashcards
what is the collision theory?
The collision theory is the idea that the particles have to collide in order to react , but it has to be hard enough with enough energy
what three things increases the collisions?
Temperature, Concentration (or pressure in gases) and Surface area
how does the temperature affect the rate of reaction?
High temperatures means that the particles move quicker meaning that they collide more often
how does the concentration (or pressure) affect the rate of reaction?
High concentration (or pressure) which means that there are more particles of react knocking between the water molecules which makes collisions between the important molecules more likely (in gases the high pressure means the particles are closer and collide more
how does the surface area affect the rate of reaction?
A larger surface area means that the particles around it have more area to work on, so there will be more frequent collisions
what is the activation energy?
Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy needed by the particles to react
what is a catalyst?
A catalyst is a substance that speeds up a reaction without being changed or used up in the reaction
what are advantages of catalysts?
- They reduce costs as it is quicker so machines do not need to be on as long
- They are done at much lower temperatures which is sustainable and cheaper
- They are renewable
what are the disadvantages of catalysts?
- They are expensive to buy
- You need a different one for each type of reaction (specialised)
- They can be poisoned easily by impurities and so they have to be kept very clean