Transition-State Theory
The Transition-State Theory explains the reactions resulting from the collision of two molecules in terms of an activated complex.  An activated complex is an unstable group of atoms that can break up to form products, represented like this:
O==N+Cl--Cl ->[O==N- -Cl- -Cl]
When the molecules come together with proper orientation, an N--Cl bond begins to form. At the same time, the kinetic energy of the collision is absorbed by the activated complex as a vibrational motion of the atomsl  This energy becomes concentrated in the bonds denoted by the dashed lines and can flow between them.  If sufficient energy becomes concentrated in one of the bonds in the activated complex, the bond breaks or falls apart.  Depending on whether the N- -Cl or
Cl- -Cl bond breaks, the activated complex either reverts to the reactants or yields the products.
The activated complex,
[O==N- -Cl- -Cl] gives products of:  O==N+Cl and O==N--Cl+Cl.
Links:
Back to Homepage
To Collision Theory
Hosted by www.Geocities.ws

1