The decomposition of compound X(g) to produce Y(g) and Z(g) is monitored at 298 K. A verbal description of an energy diagram for the uncatalyzed reaction is provided below.
• Energy of X(g) (reactant): 12 kJ mol⁻¹
• Energy of the transition state: 94 kJ mol⁻¹
• Energy of Y(g) + Z(g) (products): –8 kJ mol⁻¹
Answer the following questions. (Use 1kcal=4.184kJ.)
(a) Calculate the enthalpy change, ΔHrxn, for the forward reaction. Include the correct sign and units.
(b) Determine the forward activation energy, Ea,fwd.
(c) Compute the activation energy for the reverse reaction, Ea,rev, and express your answer in both kJ mol⁻¹ and kcal mol⁻¹. Show all unit-conversion steps.