C5.1.2 - Reaction Profiles

Cards (5)

  • State what must occur for particles to react.
    Collision theory states that for a chemical reaction to occur, the reacting particles must collide with one another. The rate of the reaction depends on the frequency of collisions. The theory also tells us that reacting particles often collide without reacting.
  • What is activation energy?
    The amount of energy needed for a reaction to occur.
  • Reaction profiles can be used to show the relative energies of reactants and products, the activation energy and the overall energy change of a reaction.
  • Exothermic reactions

    The energy level decreases in an exothermic reaction. This is because energy is given out to the surroundings.
  • Endothermic Reactions

    The energy level increases in an endothermic reaction. This is because energy is taken in from the surroundings.