Change in Enthaply and Activation Energy

[student34]

Homework Statement

For a reaction that is exothermic in the forward direction, can the activation energy E_a(fwd) ever be less than the enthalpy change?

Homework Equations

Endothermic equation: E_{a(rev) =} E_a(fwd) - delta_rH

The Attempt at a Solution

[/B]
The answer in the book has "yes", but I don't know how this can be true.

Since it's an exothermic reaction, delta_rH is negative. And as far as I know, the forward activation energy must be positive. Is it possible that the book meant magnitude? If so, then I could understand why they gave that answer.

 

[Borek]

Is it possible that the book meant magnitude?

That would be my understanding.

 

[student34]

That would be my understanding.

Thanks!