Question

If a collision between molecules doesn't have enough activation energy, which of the following is true about the molecules?

a) They are less likely to be favorably oriented.
b) They are more likely to be favorably oriented.
c) They are more likely to react.
d) They are likely to rebound without reacting.

Answer 1

If a molecular collision lacks sufficient activation energy, the molecules will likely bounce off each other without reacting, as they cannot overcome the energy barrier needed for a reaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a collision between molecules does not have enough activation energy, the molecules are likely to rebound without reacting. Adequate activation energy is necessary for reactant particles to overcome the energy barrier to break existing bonds and form new ones, leading to a chemical reaction.

Without this energy, even if the molecules are favorably oriented, they will simply bounce off each other rather than reacting since the energy is not sufficient to reach the activated complex or transition state required for product formation.