We’re being asked to determine the activation energy (Ea) for the process responsible when food rots about 50 times more rapidly at 25 °C than when it is stored at 6 °C.
This means we need to use the two-point form of the Arrhenius Equation:
where k1 = rate constant at T1
k2 = rate constant at T2
Ea = activation energy (in J/mol)
R = gas constant (8.314 J/mol•K)
T1 and T2 = temperature (in K)
Food rots about 50 times more rapidly at 25 °C than when it is stored at 6 °C. Determine the overall activation energy for the processes responsible for its decomposition.
A. 30 kJ/mol
B. 142 kJ/mol
C. -30 kJ/mol
D. -142 kJ/mol
E. not enough information given
Frequently Asked Questions
What scientific concept do you need to know in order to solve this problem?
Our tutors have indicated that to solve this problem you will need to apply the Arrhenius Equation concept. You can view video lessons to learn Arrhenius Equation. Or if you need more Arrhenius Equation practice, you can also practice Arrhenius Equation practice problems.