Catalysts Lower Activation Energy for NH3 Synthesis

Steps:

• Identify the reaction: N2 + 3H2 → 2NH3 (Haber-Bosch process).
• Recall that activation energy (Ea) is the energy barrier for the reaction.
• Note that a catalyst provides an alternative pathway with lower Ea.
• Compare Ea values: uncatalyzed is high (~200 kJ/mol), catalyzed is lower (~50-100 kJ/mol).

Why C is correct:

• C represents the reduced Ea value, as catalysts decrease Ea by stabilizing the transition state (Arrhenius equation: k = Ae^(-Ea/RT)).

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Matches uncatalyzed high Ea, ignoring catalyst effect.
• B: Shows no change in Ea, which contradicts catalyst definition.
• D: Indicates increased Ea, opposite of catalytic action.

Final answer: C