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Reaction mechanisms and activation energy
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Energy barriers and rate equations

Energy barriers and rate equations

Reaction profile for an exothermic reaction with reactants, products, transition state, activation energy and enthalpy change labelled Reaction mechanisms explain what happens in the tiny steps between reactants and products. A collision only leads to reaction if particles have the correct orientation and enough energy to reach the transition state, so the activation energy EaE_{\text{a}}Ea​ is the minimum energy needed for a successful collision.

Reaction mechanisms and activation energy Lesson

  1. A Level
  2. /Chemistry
  3. /Reaction mechanisms and activation energy

Step-by-step lessons covering Edexcel A Level Chemistry Reaction mechanisms and activation energy for A Level Chemistry. Each lesson works through exam-style questions in Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 format. Build confidence with atomic structure, bonding and moles calculations early on, since these underpin the more demanding organic mechanisms, equilibrium and practical-analysis topics that dominate Year 2.