The energy profiles for four different reactions are shown below. The scales are the same for each. Which reaction requires the least energetic collisions to reach the transition state?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reaction c requires the least energetic collisions to reach the transition state because it has the lowest activation energy. The activation energy is the amount of energy that needs to be added to the reactants for the reaction to occur. Since reaction c has the lowest activation energy, it requires the least amount of energy to reach the transition state.

The Energy Profiles for Four Different Reactions Are Shown Below