Collision Theory - GCSE Biology Definition

Collision Theory is a scientific idea used to explain how chemical reactions occur. It states that for a reaction to happen, the reacting particles must collide, or bump into each other. However, not all collisions cause a reaction. The particles must have enough energy and be in the right direction to break old bonds and form new ones. This energy is called the activation energy. In biology, this theory helps us understand processes like enzyme reactions, where enzymes and substrates must collide in the right way for the reaction to proceed effectively. This concept is important for understanding how changes in conditions, such as temperature and concentration, can affect the speed of reactions.