Collision Theory Particle Simulator – AP Chemistry

Learning Objectives

Understand that reactions require effective collisions

Relate temperature to molecular speed and collision frequency

Explain the orientation factor requirement

Observe concentration effect on collision rate

Collision Requirements

For a reaction to occur:
1. Molecules must collide
2. With sufficient energy (≥ Ea)
3. In the proper orientation

Only a fraction of collisions are effective (produce products).

Tags

collision theorykineticstemperatureconcentration

Collisions0

Effective0

Rate0/s

Temperature (K) 300

Particle Count 40

Ea Threshold 50

Total Collisions

Effective

% Effective

Avg Speed

↑ Temperature: Increases average KE → faster molecules → more collisions with E ≥ Ea → higher rate.

↑ Concentration: More particles → more frequent collisions → higher rate.

● Green flash = effective collision (E ≥ Ea + correct orientation)
● Red flash = ineffective (insufficient energy or wrong angle)