Question

what happens as the activation energy increases?
the pressure of the system decreases.
the kinetic energy of colliding molecules changes.
the reactant surface area decreases.
the reaction begins to slow down.

Explanation:

• Activation energy is the minimum energy needed for a reaction to occur. When activation energy increases, fewer molecules have enough energy to overcome this barrier and react.
• The pressure of the system (first option) is not directly related to activation energy.
• Kinetic energy of colliding molecules (second option) depends on temperature, not activation energy.
• Reactant surface area (third option) is a separate factor affecting reaction rate, not related to activation energy.
• So as activation energy increases, the number of successful collisions decreases, causing the reaction to slow down.

Answer:

D. The reaction begins to slow down.