Chapter 20, Problem 8RQ

What term is used to describe the minimum amount of energy required in order for a reaction to proceed?

To determine

The term used to describe the minimum amount of energy required in order for a reaction to proceed.

Answer to Problem 8RQ

The activation energy is the minimum amount of energy required for a reaction to complete.

Explanation of Solution

The chemical reaction is a process where the reactant molecules are undergoing changes and getting converted into the product molecules. The reactant molecule must have a sufficient amount of energy to convert into the product.

The least amount of energy needed by the reactant molecule to get converted into the product molecules is termed as the activation energy. Thus, the activation energy is the minimum required energy barrier which when passed by the reactant molecule can get converted into the product molecule to complete the reaction.

Conclusion:

The term activation energy is used to describe the minimum amount of energy required for a reaction to complete.