Open Question
a. Why do chemical reactions require energy of activation?
15. Chemical Equilibrium
Energy Diagrams
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Which of the following reactions proceeds the slowest?
Reaction 1 Reaction 2 Reaction 3
A
Reaction 1
B
Reaction 2
C
Reaction 3
Verified step by step guidance1
Examine each graph to understand the reaction profile, which typically shows the energy of the system as the reaction progresses.
Identify the activation energy for each reaction. The activation energy is the peak of the curve minus the starting energy level.
Compare the activation energies of the three reactions. The reaction with the highest activation energy will generally proceed the slowest.
Consider the shape of the curve as well. A steeper ascent to the peak indicates a higher activation energy.
Determine which reaction has the highest peak relative to its starting point, as this indicates the slowest reaction due to the highest activation energy.
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