Which of the following is required to initiate the combustion of methane (CH_4) in an energy-releasing reaction?

• A. Catalyst
• B. Activation energy
• C. Excess methane
• D. High pressure

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that combustion reactions, such as the burning of methane (CH_4), are exothermic reactions that release energy once started.
2. Recognize that to start the combustion, the reactants must overcome an initial energy barrier known as the activation energy, which allows the reaction to proceed.
3. Note that a catalyst can lower the activation energy but is not strictly required to initiate combustion; it is the presence of sufficient activation energy that is essential.
4. Excess methane or high pressure can affect the rate or completeness of combustion but are not necessary to initiate the reaction.
5. Therefore, the key requirement to initiate methane combustion is providing enough activation energy to start breaking bonds and forming new ones.