Catalysts Lower Activation Energy in Boltzmann Distribution

Steps:

• Boltzmann distribution plots particle energies, with most having moderate energy and fewer at extremes.
• Reactions require particles to exceed activation energy (Ea) threshold for successful collisions.
• Catalysts reduce Ea without altering the overall energy distribution curve.
• Lower Ea means more particles surpass the new threshold, increasing effective high-energy population for reaction.

Why A is correct:

• Catalysts decrease Ea, allowing a greater fraction of particles (per Boltzmann distribution) to have energies above the lowered threshold, per transition state theory.

Why the others are wrong:

• B: Catalysts do not shift the peak of the distribution; most probable energy remains unchanged.
• C: Catalysts do not increase the most probable energy value; the distribution shape is unaffected.
• D: Catalysts require particles to meet the reduced Ea, not enabling those below it to react.

Final answer: A