Question

Chemistry 252 has focused on two main topics: the nature of the equilibrium state, and the rates of processes that take place to achieve equilibrium, i.e., chemical kinetics.

Write a paragraph that compares the information content required to describe the equilibrium state with that necessary to describe the rate processes that connect reactants and products.   In your answer, include a discussion of the energy levels, molecular motions, and appropriate length scales of all important species involved in specifying the equilibrium state. Include a similar discussion for any key species that play a role in the reaction rates that establish equilibrium.   Indicate how the properties of these species are incorporated into a theory of reaction rates.

Topics that may be helpful in constructing your answer:

             Potential energy surface

             Reaction coordinate

             Partition functions    

             Transition state

             Saddle point

            

Your paragraph should be written in acceptable scientific prose. You should use complete sentences, and the logical flow of your arguments should be clear. There is no word limit, but preferably no longer than a page typed.

Answer 1