Activation Energy Chemistry Example 3
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 3
easyDoes a catalyst change the activation energy of a reaction? How?
Solution
- 1 Yes, a catalyst lowers the activation energy by providing an alternative reaction pathway.
- 2 This allows more molecules to have sufficient energy to react, increasing the reaction rate without being consumed.
Answer
Catalysts do not change the overall energy change () of the reaction — they only lower the energy barrier to get there.
About Activation Energy
The minimum kinetic energy that reactant particles must possess upon collision in order to break existing bonds and initiate a chemical reaction, represented as the.
Learn more about Activation Energy →More Activation Energy Examples
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