Reactant A can participate in both of these reactions:
A + B C + D ΔGrxn = -15.6 kJ
A + E F + G ΔGrxn = -20.5 kJ
Reaction 1 has a much higher rate than Reaction 2 under the same reaction conditions. Explain this observation in terms of activation energy.
A) Reaction 1 has a lower activation energy than Reaction 2, making it faster.
B) Reaction 1 has a higher activation energy than Reaction 2, making it faster.
C) The activation energy for both reactions is the same, so other factors determine the rate.
D) Reaction 2 has a catalyst, reducing its activation energy and increasing its rate.
