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Multiple Choice
The rate constant of a reaction at 32°C is 0.060/s. If the frequency factor is 3.1 × 1015 s–1, what is the activation barrier?
A
9.1 x 104J/mol
B
1.0 x 104J/mol
C
9.8 x 104J/mol
D
8.3 x 104J/mol
Verified step by step guidance
1
Start by understanding the Arrhenius equation, which is used to relate the rate constant (k) of a reaction to the temperature (T) and the activation energy (Ea). The equation is: k = A * e^(-Ea/(RT)), where A is the frequency factor, R is the gas constant (8.314 J/mol·K), and T is the temperature in Kelvin.
Convert the given temperature from Celsius to Kelvin. Since the temperature is given as 32°C, add 273.15 to convert it to Kelvin: T = 32 + 273.15 = 305.15 K.
Rearrange the Arrhenius equation to solve for the activation energy (Ea). Take the natural logarithm of both sides to get: ln(k) = ln(A) - Ea/(RT).
Substitute the known values into the rearranged equation. You have k = 0.060/s, A = 3.1 × 10^15 s^–1, R = 8.314 J/mol·K, and T = 305.15 K. Plug these values into the equation: ln(0.060) = ln(3.1 × 10^15) - Ea/(8.314 * 305.15).
Solve for Ea by isolating it on one side of the equation. This involves calculating the difference between the natural logarithms and multiplying by RT to find the activation energy in J/mol.