AP Chemistry - Collisions and particles...and cars...and Dogs and Cats...

OK...so we have been doing a lot of new stuff lately...this reaction kinetics thing can be confusing and, not to mention, it can be a little bit dry...although I do make it interesting. And for the next few weeks this stuff is going to get a little bit more "murky" and we are all going to work hard...so let's step back and talk for a minute...or more.

Remember last year we read "Atoms in Motion" by Richard Feynmann. He discussed 'jiggling' atoms and kinetic energy. And we started saying things like...'the answer to all questions is work...the source of all work is heat...heat is measured by 'jiggling' (great science word) of particles..." This stuff actually made sense by the end of the year. Now we are talking about reaction orders, rate constants, activation energy, activated complex. collision theory and equilibrium...and quite frankly, this all has to some how return to '...the answer to all questions is...'

Collision theory says reactions will happen if particles collide, but do all colliding particles react? If they don't...why not and if they do...why? What are the criteria for two colliding particles to react? Is any work done? Does energy play a role in all this?

So, log on to this blog and 'weigh in' with your input on these discussion points. Support your thoughts with at least one reference (other than your text). Write two to three illustrative paragraphs about collisions, energy, and reactions...remember, back up what you say. When you are done comment on one other response. Be nice and be supportive. No fighting or gnashing of teeth. Let the games begin.