NEETChemistryd and f Block Elements
How does the formation of bonds between reactant molecules and the catalyst surface affect the activation energy of a reaction?
Options
- AIt increases the activation energy
- BIt has no effect on the activation energy
- CIt decreases the activation energy
- DIt depends on the type of catalyst
Correct answer
C. It decreases the activation energy
Step-by-step solution
Catalysts at a solid surface involve the formation of bonds between reactant molecules and atoms of the surface of the catalyst (first row transition metals utilise 3d and 4s electrons for bonding). This has the effect of increasing the concentration of the reactants at the catalyst surface and also weakening of the bonds in the reacting molecules (the activation energy is lowering)