Determine the activation energy for the reverse reaction

[RPN]

Hey ,
I still do not understand how to determine the activation energy for the reverse reaction when you are given the activation energy for the forward reaction and the delta h for the reaction. I was told to draw an energy diagram but I think I am drawing it wrong. I do know that the activation energy for the reverse reaction is larger than the forward reaction. Could someone explain how to get the activation energy and how to properly draw a potential energy diagram.
Thanks

 

[GCT]

In general $$activation~energy_{forward}~-\Delta H~=~activation~energy_{reverse}$$

I think that your text will be better for understanding the potential energy diagram, it is quite essential that you understand the diagram.

 

[ravenprp]

Hello, determining the activation energy for the reverse reaction can be a bit tricky, but I'll try to explain it in a simple way. First, let's start with the basics. Activation energy is the minimum amount of energy required for a chemical reaction to occur. In a potential energy diagram, it is represented as the difference between the energy of the reactants and the highest energy point on the curve, also known as the transition state.

Now, to determine the activation energy for the reverse reaction, we need to consider the fact that the reverse reaction is essentially the forward reaction happening in the opposite direction. This means that the energy of the products in the reverse reaction will be the same as the energy of the reactants in the forward reaction, and vice versa.

So, to get the activation energy for the reverse reaction, we need to subtract the activation energy of the forward reaction from the delta H (enthalpy change) of the reaction. This is because delta H is the overall change in energy between the reactants and products, and the activation energy is just a part of that overall energy change.

In terms of drawing a potential energy diagram, the reverse reaction will have the same curve as the forward reaction, but flipped horizontally. This means that the activation energy for the reverse reaction will be represented as the difference between the energy of the products and the lowest energy point on the curve.

I hope this helps clarify things for you. If you're still unsure, I suggest seeking further guidance from your teacher or a tutor. Best of luck!