Chapter 17, Problem 4A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:The concept of activation energy and its relation with the collision of molecules is to be explained.

Concept introduction: The energy of reactants is at times not enough for the reaction to proceed. In that case reactants need to gain energy. This energy gained by the reactants is called activation energy.

Answer to Problem 4A

The activation energy for a reaction represents the minimum energy possessed by the reactants in order for the reaction to proceed further.When reactant molecules possess energy equal to activation energy, they collide with each other successfully resulting in the formation of products.

Explanation of Solution

In order for the reactants to proceed to form products, they must cross an energy barrier. Under normal conditions, reactants may not possess the energy required to collide and successfully form the products. So it needs to gain energy and this energy is called activation energy.

Conclusion

Reactant molecules need to have minimum energy called activation energy for the reactants to collide and form the products.