Why do chemical reactions move at different rates? Chemistry scholars examine the intricate workings of reaction mechanisms with a video from the JFR Science playlist. They watch as the narrator diagrams reaction intermediates and activation energy for a variety of chemical reactions.

Concepts

chemical reactions, reaction rates, rate of reaction, rate law, reaction order, balancing chemical equations, catalysts, activation energy

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Have the class describe in steps how to make a hamburger, then use their explanation as a model to help them describe reaction mechanisms
• After the video, work a few examples together to ensure pupils are on the right track
  

Classroom Considerations

• Viewers should have prior knowledge of reaction diagrams and balanced chemical equations before getting into reaction mechanisms
  

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Provides an excellent demonstration of how catalysts affect chemical reactions
• Interesting examples keep learners focused and engaged
  

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.9-10.2