Which Best Describes the Energy of Activation

Question

Which best describes the energy of activation?
A) A type of exergonic reaction
B) A type of endergonic reaction
C) The energy required to break existing bonds
D) The catalysts needed to raise a reaction's rate
E) The enzymes required to lower a reaction's rate

Accepted Answer

The energy of activation is the minimum amount of energy required to initiate a chemical reaction, specifically to break the existing bonds in the reactants. This energy is necessary to reach the transition state where new bonds can form, leading to the products of the reaction.