Here’s a explanation without equations:
1. Unimolecular Reaction
- In this reaction, only one molecule is involved in the reaction step.
- The molecule breaks down or rearranges itself to form products.
- The reaction speed depends on the amount of that one molecule.
- Example: Some gases naturally decompose on their own over time.
2. Bimolecular Reaction
- In this reaction, two molecules collide and react together.
- The reaction happens when the molecules meet with enough energy and correct orientation.
- The reaction speed depends on the amount of both molecules.
- Example: Hydrogen and iodine reacting to form hydrogen iodide (in general terms, two molecules react to form something new).
Simple idea:
- Unimolecular = one molecule changes by itself
- Bimolecular = two molecules must collide to react