Question detail

What is the definition of activation energy?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Kinetics

Question

  1. A. The minimum energy required for a reaction to occur
  2. B. The energy released during a reaction
  3. C. The energy needed to break bonds in reactants
  4. D. The energy required to form products

Answer

The minimum energy required for a reaction to occur

Explanation

Activation energy is defined as the minimum energy that reacting particles must possess for a reaction to occur. This energy is necessary to overcome the energy barrier for the reaction.

Common mistake

Misunderstanding Activation Energy

Students often confuse activation energy with the overall energy change of a reaction, thinking it is the energy released or absorbed during the reaction.

Activation energy is the minimum energy required for a reaction to occur, not the energy change. To clarify, remember that activation energy is the energy barrier that must be overcome for reactants to convert into products.

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