Difference between rate and frequency?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the distinction between the terms "rate of collision" and "frequency of collision," particularly in the context of molecular collisions. Participants explore the definitions and implications of these terms in various contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that "rate" and "frequency" may be similar but note that "rate" is a more vague term, while "frequency" is more technical and specific to periodic occurrences.
  • There is a question about the context of the collisions, with some participants emphasizing the need for clarity regarding what is colliding.
  • When discussing molecular collisions, one participant argues that "rate of collisions" is more appropriate than "frequency of collisions" because molecular collisions do not exhibit periodic motion.
  • Another participant points out that "frequency" implies a time reference, whereas "rate" can be more generic and applicable to various contexts, such as defect rates in manufacturing.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether "rate" and "frequency" can be used interchangeably, particularly in the context of molecular collisions. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the ambiguity of the term "rate" and its potential to refer to various concepts beyond just collisions, indicating a need for careful definition in discussions.

Iceified
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Is rate of collision and frequency of collision the same ? In what ways are they different ?
 
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Iceified said:
Is rate of collision and frequency of collision the same ? In what ways are they different ?
Collisions of WHAT? And in what context? I would say that yes, they are likely to be the same but "rate" is a bit vague whereas "frequency" is a more solid technical term relating to how often something occurs over and over again. That is "rate" could be used to mean speed and other things (as in rate of decay, rate of travel, etc.) in addition to a "rate of collision" (which in any case sounds very awkward)
 
phinds said:
Collisions of WHAT? And in what context? I would say that yes, they are likely to be the same but "rate" is a bit vague whereas "frequency" is a more solid technical term relating to how often something occurs. That is "rate" could be used to mean speed and other things (as in rate of decay, rate of travel, etc.)
Collisions of molecules. Can the terms be used interchangeably? Thanks.
 
Iceified said:
Collisions of molecules. Can the terms be used interchangeably? Thanks.
Ah ... well that's a bit of a different story. Collisions of molecules are not periodic motion so I think "rate of collisions" is better than "frequency of collisions" since frequency connotes periodic.
 
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phinds said:
Ah ... well that's a bit of a different story. Collisions of molecules are not periodic motion so I think "rate of collisions" is better than "frequency of collisions" since frequency connotes periodic.
On the other hand "frequency" connotes a time reference where "rate" (from the root word "ratio") connotes something that can be more generic (e.g "a defect rate of 10 problems per car coming off the assembly line"). One might want to use the more specific term rather the more generic when describing a time-based rate.
 

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