Maxwell–Boltzmann vs Eₐ

This interactive simulator explores Maxwell–Boltzmann vs Eₐ in Chemistry. Translational energy density f(E); shaded fraction above activation energy; compare Arrhenius exp(−Eₐ/RT). Use the controls to change the scenario; watch the visualization and any graphs or readouts to connect the model with lectures, labs, and homework.

Who it's for: Best once you already know the basic definitions and want to build intuition. Typical context: Chemistry.

Key terms

  • maxwell
  • boltzmann
  • maxwell boltzmann ea
  • chemistry

How it works

Translational energy distribution for a classical ideal gas in 3D: f(E) ∝ √E exp(−E/kT). The shaded tail is the fraction of collisions with kinetic energy exceeding Eₐ per molecule (compare with the Arrhenius factor exp(−Eₐ/RT), which uses molar energies in reaction rate theory).

Key equations

f(E) = (2/√π)(kT)^(−3/2) √E exp(−E/kT)

P(E > Eₐ) = ∫_{Eₐ}^∞ f(E) dE