Collision theory

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-002229",
  "term": "Collision theory",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A theoretical model used to explain and predict the rates of chemical reactions, particularly in the gas phase. It postulates that for a reaction to occur, reactant molecules must collide with sufficient kinetic energy (exceeding the activation energy) and with the correct orientation. The theory provides a framework for understanding the factors that influence reaction rates.",
  "synonyms": [
    "kinetic theory of collisions"
  ],
  "subject": "Physical and Biophysical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "Avogadro constant",
    "collision density",
    "collision frequency",
    "number density",
    "reactant",
    "reduced mass"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1996, 68, 149. 'A glossary of terms used in chemical kinetics, including reaction dynamics (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)' on page 160 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199668010149)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/collision-theory/"
}