Chapter 16, Problem 43A

What is the role of the activated complex in a chemical reaction?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The role of the activated complex in a chemical reaction needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

In a chemical reaction, the reactants are written on the left side of the equation and the product is written on the right side.

Molecules undergo collision in the presence of the required amount of energy needed for collision to form some new molecules.

Answer to Problem 43A

The formation of an activated complex, is followed by the formation of new products or the particles re-collect trying to form original reactants.

Explanation of Solution

An activated complex is formed as a result of collision between two particles with a sufficient amount of energy required for the collision. When the colliding particles break their bonds to form new bonds with the atoms of the particles it has undergo collision, a temporary transition state is generated which is an activated complex.

After the formation of this activated complex, it is followed by the formation of new products or the particles re-collect trying to form original reactants.

Conclusion

The formation of an activated complex, results in the formation of new products or the particles re-collect trying to form original reactants.