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Multiple Choice
A chemical reaction is designated as exergonic rather than endergonic when __________. and
A
activation energy is required
B
the products are less complex than the reactants
C
activation energy exceeds net energy release
D
it absorbs more energy
E
the potential energy of the products is less than the potential energy of the reactants
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the terms: Exergonic reactions release energy, while endergonic reactions absorb energy. This is a fundamental concept in thermodynamics related to the energy changes in chemical reactions.
Identify the key characteristic of exergonic reactions: In an exergonic reaction, the potential energy of the products is less than the potential energy of the reactants. This means that energy is released during the reaction.
Analyze the options given: Consider each option and relate it to the definition of exergonic reactions. For example, 'activation energy is required' is true for both exergonic and endergonic reactions, so it doesn't distinguish between them.
Evaluate the complexity of products and reactants: The statement 'the products are less complex than the reactants' might be true in some cases, but it is not a defining feature of exergonic reactions.
Focus on energy changes: The correct answer is that the potential energy of the products is less than the potential energy of the reactants, which aligns with the definition of an exergonic reaction where energy is released.