which phrase describes the initial input of energy that is needed to break bonds in a chemical reaction?
bond energy
kinetic energy
potential energy
activation energy
nvm the answers is activation energy
I think d is the best choice of those answers listed but I don't like that definition of activation energy.
I think activation energy is better described this way.
"What is activation energy in a chemical equation?
The Activation Energy (Ea) - is the energy level that the reactant molecules must overcome before a reaction can occur."
you’re right drbob222! thank you!!
The phrase that describes the initial input of energy needed to break bonds in a chemical reaction is "activation energy."
To understand why activation energy is required, let's break down the process. In a chemical reaction, bonds between atoms are broken and new bonds are formed. However, breaking the existing bonds requires an input of energy to overcome the forces holding the atoms together. This initial energy input is called activation energy.
To determine the activation energy of a specific chemical reaction, experimental techniques such as spectroscopy or thermal analysis can be employed. These methods measure the amount of energy needed to start the reaction, essentially measuring the activation energy. Additionally, computational methods such as molecular dynamics simulations or quantum mechanics calculations can be used to estimate activation energy before performing experimental studies.
It is important to note that activation energy is different from the potential energy of the reactants or products, which represent the energy stored within the chemical bonds themselves. The activation energy is the additional energy needed to initiate the reaction and overcome the energy barrier between the reactants and products.