Question

Use the PhET Reactions & Rates interactive simulation (http://openstaxcollege.org/l/ 16PHETreaction) to simulate a system. On the “Single collision” tab of the simulation applet, enable the “Energy view” by clicking the “+” icon. Select the first A + BC⟶AB + C reaction (A is yellow, B is purple, and C is navy blue). Using the “angled shot” option, try launching the A atom with varying angles, but with more Total energy than the transition state. Whathappenswhen the A atom hitstheBC molecule from different directions? Why?

Short answer

In both cases, the reaction rate depends on the orientation and energy of the reactants.

In all the cases where reactant A hits the molecule BC from different directions, the reaction rate depends on the orientation and energy of the reactants.

Step-by-step solution

A hits BC from different directions

When Reactant A hits BC from different directions, not all collisions lead to the forward reaction.

Explanation

Reactant A has sufficient energy to react with BC. However, proper orientation of the molecules is required to bring about the reaction. So proper orientation along with total energy will determine product formation.