According to collision theory, which of the following factors determine whether a collision between two molecules will result in a chemical reaction?

• A. The molecules must collide with sufficient energy and proper orientation.
• B. The molecules must have identical masses.
• C. The molecules must be in the gaseous state.
• D. The molecules must collide at low temperatures.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that collision theory explains how chemical reactions occur based on molecular collisions.
2. Recognize that for a collision to result in a reaction, the molecules must collide with enough energy to overcome the activation energy barrier. This is called having 'sufficient energy'.
3. Know that molecules must also be oriented in a specific way during the collision so that the reactive parts can interact properly. This is referred to as 'proper orientation'.
4. Identify that factors like identical masses, being in the gaseous state, or low temperatures are not requirements for a successful collision according to collision theory.
5. Conclude that the two key factors determining whether a collision leads to a reaction are sufficient energy and proper orientation of the molecules during the collision.