$$\ce{Na (s) + Cl_2 (g)->NaCl(s)}$$
Is collision theory applicable for the above reaction, or is collision theory applicable only for molecules? In other words, do chlorine atoms collide with sodium atoms to produce sodium chloride , or does the chlorine atom get near the sodium atom, electron transfer takes place (as it is energetically favorable), and $\ce{Na+}$ and $\ce{Cl-}$ get stuck?
Edit after @BuckThorn's comment:
or does the chlorine atom get near the sodium atom, electron transfer takes place (as it is energetically favorable), and $\ce{Na+}$ and $\ce{Cl-}$ get stuck?
In this process, the Na atom and the Cl atom don't touch, and electron transfer occurs at a distance (due to attractive/repulsive forces). Only after electron transfer takes place do $\ce{Na+}$ and $\ce{Cl-}$ touch and get stuck. That's why I don't think it is akin to collision.