Transition State Theory
What is Transition State Theory?
Transition state theory (activated complex theory) proposes that chemical reactions proceed through an unstable, high-energy intermediate structure called the transition state (or activated complex), located at the energy maximum along the reaction coordinate. The theory provides a theoretical framework for calculating reaction rates using the Eyring equation: k = (k_BT/h) × e^(−ΔG‡/RT), where ΔG‡ is the activation free energy. It relates the reaction rate to both the activation energy (enthalpic barrier) and the entropy of activation, providing deeper insight than simple collision theory.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Transition state theory (activated complex theory) proposes that chemical reactions proceed through an unstable, high-energy intermediate structure called the transition state (or activated complex), located at the energy maximum along the reaction coordinate. The theory provides a theoretical framework for calculating reaction rates using the Eyring equation: k = (k_BT/h) × e^(−ΔG‡/RT), where ΔG‡ is the activation free energy. It relates the reaction rate to both the activation energy (enthalpic barrier) and the entropy of activation, providing deeper insight than simple collision theory.