5.2 Collision Theory and Activation Energy
In a chemical reaction, bonds between atoms are broken and new bonds are formed. Collision theory helps us understand how these reactions happen. For a reaction to occur, the atoms or molecules must collide with each other. However, not all collisions lead to a reaction. The success of a collision depends on two things:
1. Energy
The colliding particles must have enough energy to overcome the repulsion between their outer electrons.
2. Orientation
The particles must be aligned in a way that allows the necessary atoms to come together and form new bonds.