Reaction coordinate diagrams (RCDs) simultaneously depict both thermodynamic and kinetic information. Previous research in our group has documented the challenges that organic chemistry students face when interpreting the surface features of RCDs and when trying to connect these features to reaction mechanisms. In this research project, semi-structured interviews were conducted with second-semester general chemistry students. The interviews explored students’ understandings regarding the information encoded in RCDs and the use of RCDs to explain mechanisms typically taught in general chemistry. Findings from the analysis of these interviews were used to create an assessment tool to quantitatively measure students’ thinking with RCDs. Preliminary findings regarding data generated by the new measurement tool will be presented.

Inventory to measure student thinking about reaction coordinate diagrams

2019 Spring National Meeting

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