most probable energy
What most probable energy means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA, OCR.
Definitions of most probable energy
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain most probable energy in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
The energy at the peak of the curve, where the largest number of molecules have that energy.
The energy at the single peak of the curve, where the number of molecules is highest.
Topics that use most probable energy
- Maxwell–Boltzmann distribution (AQA A-Level)
- Reaction rates (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Activation energy
- Alternative reaction pathway
- area beyond the activation energy
- asymptotic tail
- Boltzmann distribution
- Catalysis and activation energy
- Catalyst examples
- Catalyst regenerated and not consumed
Using most probable energy in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Chemistry questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge