Energy changes/collisions(Chemistry)

Why do methane + oxygen not react at room temperature?

Most particles do not have energy greater or equal to activation energy; their collisions are not energetic enough to react

What is activation energy?

The minimum energy particles need for a collision to cause a reaction

What happens when you heat the mixture?

Particles move faster, more have energy (greater or equal) activation energy, so more successful collisions happen each second

What does a catalyst do?

Provides an alternative reaction pathway with lower activation energy; it does not give particles more energy

What is a successful collision?

A collision where particles have energy (greater or equal) activation energy and the correct orientation so bonds break and a reaction happens