_Thus, most chemical reactions do not occur, because there is what is called an activation energy in the way. In order to add an extra atom to our chemical requires that we get it close enough that some rearrangement can occur; then it will stick. But if we cannot give it enough energy to get it close enough, it will not go to completion it will just go partway up the “hill” and back down again._​ – Richard Feynman, [Six Easy Pieces](https://click.convertkit-mail2.com/k0uvord2n5b6hdlqx8xbl/z2hghnh3k8wdzlbp/aHR0cDovL2JsYXMuY29tL3NpeC1lYXN5LXBpZWNlcy8=) ---- Superconductors are a great example of critical mass. Often huge amounts of energy can be applied to either cool down or heat up molecules, but until critical mass is reached, it appears as if little is happening. However, once that critical mass is attained, the molecules align and you start seeing unexpected, emergent behavior and vast improvements in efficiency, conductivity, and more! #boat [[Self Organized Criticality]]