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Article

Using Computer Assisted Learning to Teach Molecular Reaction Dynamics

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Katharine L. Reid and Richard J. Wheatley

Department of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK

John C. Horton and Stephen W. Brydges

CAL Group, Cripps Computing Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK

J. Chem. Educ., 2000, 77 (3), p 407

DOI: 10.1021/ed077p407

Publication Date (Web): March 1, 2000

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

We have developed a Computer Assisted Learning program to aid in the teaching of molecular reaction dynamics to undergraduate students. Dynamic and steric factors affecting reaction outcomes are investigated by observing individual molecular collisions. Students control the reactions by experimenting with the initial trajectories of the molecules. Interactive questions emphasizing the role of the potential energy surface guide the students through this "experiment" and on to a detailed analysis of the results. This enables students to relate the new material they have learned to more familiar topics in chemical kinetics.