Question

Based on their activation energies and energy changes and assuming that all collision factors are the same, which of the following reactions would be fastest and which would be slowest?(a) Ea = 45kJ/mol; E = -25 kJ/mol(b) Ea = 35kJ/mol; E = -10 kJ/mol(c) Ea = 55kJ/mol; E = 10 kJ/mol

Answer 1

b is fastest, having the lowest activation energy (35 kJ) and is an exothermic reaction, releasing energy in the form of heat

c is slowest, having the highest activation energy (55 kJ) and is an endothermic reaction, taking in energy from its surroundings