Which is the best definition of activation energy?
A. the energy required to end a chemical reaction
B. the energy required to bind a substrate to an active site
C. the energy required to form or break the bonds of reactant molecules
D. the energy required to re-form bonds in product molecules
Answer (2)
Activation energy is the minimum energy required to initiate a chemical reaction by breaking bonds in reactant molecules. The correct definition is that it is the energy required to form or break these bonds. Understanding this concept is essential for studying reaction mechanisms in chemistry. ;
Activation energy is the minimum energy needed to start a chemical reaction by breaking bonds in reactant molecules, making option C the correct choice. This concept is crucial for understanding why reactions require certain conditions to occur, such as heat. An example is combustion, which needs heat to initiate the reaction.
;
