The activation energy for a simple chemical reaction A B is Ea in forward direction. The activation energy for reverse reaction
- is negative of Ea
- is always less than Ea
- can be less than or more than Ea
- is always double of Ea
Answer
(3) can be less than or more than Ea
Solution
From the energy profile diagram, both forward and reverse reactions pass through the same activated complex.
⇒ Ea(b) = Ea(f) - H
∵ For an exothermic reaction ( H < 0): Ea(b) > Ea
∵ For an endothermic reaction ( H > 0): Ea(b) < Ea
∴ The activation energy for the reverse reaction can be less than or more than Ea, depending on the sign of H.
Answer: (3)