In the PhET Reactions & Rates interactive, on the Many Collisions tab, set up a simulation with 15 molecules of A and 10 molecules of BC. Select “Show Bonds” under Options.
(a) Leave the Initial Temperature at the default setting. Observe the reaction. Is the rate of reaction fast or slow?
(b) Click “Pause” and then “Reset All,” and then enter 15 molecules of A and 10 molecules of BC once again. Select “Show Bonds” under Options. This time, increase the initial temperature until, on the graph, the total average energy line is completely above the potential energy curve. Describe what happens to the reaction.
OpenStax Chemistry 2e, 12.2 Factors Affecting Reaction Rates, exercise 5