Instanious interactions the intermedaite

In summary, the conversation discusses the atomic interactions involved in substitution reactions and whether the leaving of a Cl atom and the addition of an OH- ion can occur at the same time. It is stated that there is likely a delay involved, but it is negligible in the overall chemical reaction and does not violate Einstein's Law of Special Relativity. The molecules may go through intermediate shapes, but these changes happen quickly and can be considered instantaneous for the purposes of chemistry.
  • #1
bjon-07
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Instanious interactions and the intermedaite

Hi all, I had some question evolving the atomic interactions of subsition reactions.

For example OH- + CH3CH2Cl= CH3CH2OH + Cl-

The intermedaite in this reaction is OHCH3CHCL The Cl is leaving at the exact same moment that the OH- is bing to the centeral C atom. How is this possible? Does it volate Ensteins Law of Speical Relativity ( Nothing can go faster than light)

Thank you for your time
 
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  • #2
You do not need to worry about special relativity affecting chemistry, unless you're dealing with fine structure or explaining the behavior of gold/mercury. There is probably a delay involved, but it is completely negligible on the time scales of the larger chemical reaction. The molecules likely go through many intermediate, distorted shapes before the end products are created, but these things happen so fast that you can assume they are instantaneous for the intents and purposes of chemistry.
 

1. What are instantaneous interactions in intermediate?

Instantaneous interactions in intermediate refer to the sudden and short-lived interactions that occur between different particles or molecules in a medium.

2. How do instantaneous interactions affect the behavior of molecules?

Instantaneous interactions can impact the behavior of molecules by altering their trajectory, speed, and overall movement within a medium.

3. What are some examples of instantaneous interactions in intermediate?

Examples of instantaneous interactions in intermediate include collisions between gas molecules, temporary attractions between particles in a liquid, and repulsions between molecules in a solid.

4. How do scientists study instantaneous interactions in intermediate?

Scientists can use various techniques such as computer simulations, mathematical models, and experimental observations to study instantaneous interactions in intermediate.

5. What is the significance of understanding instantaneous interactions in intermediate?

Understanding instantaneous interactions in intermediate is crucial for understanding the behavior of matter and for studying various physical and chemical processes, such as diffusion, heat transfer, and phase changes.

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