Chemistry A-Level
orientation
What orientation means in Chemistry A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of orientation
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 orientation in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Even an energetic collision can fail if the reacting groups are pointing the wrong way.
The particles must be correctly oriented, so that the right atoms meet.
Topics that use orientation
- Collision theory (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- Activation energy
- energy requirement
- spread of molecular energies
- successful collisions
- transition state
- collision theory
- unsuccessful collisions
Using orientation 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.
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