In the energy profile diagram below, which curve represents the catalyzed reaction?A. Curve 1: Lower activation energyB. Curve 2: Higher activation energy

• A. Curve 1: Lower activation energy
• B. Curve 2: Higher activation energy

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that an energy profile diagram shows the energy changes during a chemical reaction, including the activation energy required to reach the transition state.
2. Recall that a catalyst works by lowering the activation energy of a reaction, which means the energy barrier that must be overcome is reduced.
3. Identify that the curve with the lower peak (activation energy) represents the catalyzed reaction because the catalyst provides an alternative pathway with less energy required.
4. Compare the two curves: Curve 1 has a lower activation energy peak, while Curve 2 has a higher activation energy peak.
5. Conclude that Curve 1 corresponds to the catalyzed reaction since it shows the reduced activation energy due to the catalyst's effect.