Question

question 31 of 32
which factor(s) will most likely lower the activation energy of a reaction?

a. temperature and concentration
b. concentration
c. temperature and catalysts
d. catalysts

Explanation:

To determine which factor lowers the activation energy of a reaction, we analyze each option:

• Option A: Temperature affects the rate of reaction by increasing the kinetic energy of particles (leading to more frequent and energetic collisions) but does not lower activation energy. Concentration increases the number of reactant particles, increasing collision frequency, but also does not lower activation energy. So A is incorrect.
• Option B: Concentration, as explained, affects collision frequency but not activation energy. So B is incorrect.
• Option C: Temperature does not lower activation energy (it affects reaction rate via collision energy/frequency). Catalysts do lower activation energy, but since temperature does not, C is incorrect.
• Option D: Catalysts work by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. This is their primary function in chemical reactions. So D is correct.

Answer:

D. Catalysts