Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Energy of Activation
The energy of activation is the minimum energy required to initiate a chemical reaction. It represents the energy barrier that reactants must overcome for the reaction to proceed. This energy is necessary to break bonds in the reactants and allow the formation of new bonds in the products.
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Reaction Mechanism
A reaction mechanism is a step-by-step description of the pathway taken during a chemical reaction. It outlines the sequence of elementary steps, including the formation of intermediates and transition states. Understanding the mechanism helps explain how energy is utilized and transformed throughout the reaction process.
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Catalysts
Catalysts are substances that increase the rate of a chemical reaction by lowering the energy of activation without being consumed in the process. They provide an alternative pathway for the reaction, making it easier for reactants to convert into products. This is crucial in many industrial processes where efficiency and speed are important.
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