Demonstrating energy migration in coupled oscillators: A central concept in the theory of unimolecular reactions

Abstract

This physical chemistry lecture demonstration is designed to aid the understanding of intramolecular energy transfer processes as part of the presentation of the theory of unimolecular reaction rates. Coupled pendulums are used to show the rate of migration of energy between oscillators under resonant and nonresonant conditions with varying degrees of coupling and how that relates to chemical reaction.

Department(s)

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Document Type

Article

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1021/ed082p1530

Publication Date

1-1-2005

Journal Title

Journal of Chemical Education

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