Question

Which factor in the Arrhenius equation corresponds to the fraction of molecules having kinetic energy greater than activation energy?

• A. ln k
• B. ln A
• C. RT
• D. e^-Ea/RT

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The Arrhenius equation is stated as: k = Ae^-Ea/RT, with the following definitions:

• k denotes the rate constant.
• A signifies the pre-exponential factor (frequency factor).
• E_a represents the activation energy.
• R is the universal gas constant.
• T is the temperature expressed in Kelvin.

The component e^-Ea/RT within the Arrhenius equation quantifies the proportion of molecules possessing kinetic energy exceeding the activation energy. This factor originates from the exponential distribution of molecular energies and illustrates the increase in this proportion as temperature rises or activation energy diminishes.

Consequently, the specific component representing the fraction of molecules with kinetic energy above the activation energy is confirmed to be e^-Ea/RT.