https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.08141
In theories of unimolecular reactions an energized chemical species, often characterized by the superscript \(^{\ddagger}\), where the excitation is specific and the molecule is poised for reaction.
Notes:
- Often used as a synonym for activated complex or transition state, but not restricted to transition-state theory.
- This is distinct from an energized molecule, often characterized by the superscript \(^{*}\), in which excitation energy is dispersed among internal degrees of freedom.
- This is not a complex according to the definition in this Glossary.