Chapter 16, Problem 44A

Suppose two molecules that can react collide. Underwhat circumstances do the colliding molecules not react?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The circumstances in which the colliding molecules do not react needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

In a chemical reaction, the reactants are written on the left side of the equation and the product is written on the right side.

Molecules undergo collision in the presence of the required amount of energy needed for collision and proper orientation to form some new molecules.

Answer to Problem 44A

The various circumstances under which the colliding molecules will not reacts are the absence of required energy of collision, absence of proper orientation and if the collision energy is not equal to the activation energy for the given reaction.

Explanation of Solution

In order to undergo collision, the reactants must collide in correct orientation and in the presence of enough energy of collision. In absence of both of these factors, there will be no collision between to reactant molecules. The collision may not also take place if the collision energy is not equal to the activation energy for the given reaction.

Conclusion

The colliding molecules will not react in the absence of required energy of collision, absence of proper orientation and if the collision energy is not equal to the activation energy for the given reaction.