Collision Theory
The model that explains reaction rates in terms of the frequency, energy and orientation of collisions between reacting particles.
Formula / equation
rate = pZ e^(−Ea/RT)
Unit
mol/(L·s)
In depth
A reaction occurs only when particles collide with at least the activation energy and in a geometry that allows the new bonds to form. Since only a tiny fraction of collisions meets both conditions, observed rates are many orders of magnitude below the total collision rate.
Examples in the real world
In a typical gas mixture, fewer than one collision in 10¹⁰ leads to reaction at room temperature.