How to teach collision theory and what affects rates of reaction at 14–16

A diagram showing how when two molecules collide they have to have enough energy to react together

Source: © Royal Society of Chemistry

Help students tackle the topic of collision theory head on with these teaching strategies

Ever wondered why a flour mill can explode or what truly makes reactions speed up? Delve into the devastating 1878 Minneapolis flour mill explosion to unpack the science of collision theory with your 14–16 learners. We’ll explore how factors like catalysts temperature, concentration and surface area dictate the rate of chemical reactions, and how a single spark can ignite a catastrophic chain reaction. Use the practical teaching strategies and learn how to tackle common student misconceptions, ensuring your learners master this fundamental concept. Suitable for key stage 3, years 8–10 in Northern Ireland, S1–2 in Scotland and Junior cycle year in Republic of Ireland.

Thanks for using Education in Chemistry. You can view one Education in Chemistry article per month as a visitor. 

A photograph of a teacher standing in a white lab coat, speaking with a class of children in a laboratory, is superimposed on a colourful background. Text reads "Teach Chemistry means support for classroom and staff room".

Register for Teach Chemistry for free, unlimited access

Registration is open to all teachers and technicians at secondary schools, colleges and teacher training institutions in the UK and Ireland.

Get all this, plus much more:

  • unlimited access to resources, core practical videos and Education in Chemistry articles
  • teacher well-being toolkit, personal development resources and online assessments
  • applications for funding to support your lessons

Already a Teach Chemistry member? Sign in now.

Not eligible for Teach Chemistry? Sign up for a personal account instead, or you can also access all our resources with Royal Society of Chemistry membership.