Question

What does a negative activation energy mean?

Answer 1

Activation energy

1. Activation energy is defined as the minimum amount of energy requires by reactants in conversion to products.
2. Activation energy is denoted as ${\mathrm{E}}_{\mathrm{a}}$.
3. It is generally measured in$\mathrm{Joules}$, ${\mathrm{KJmol}}^{-1}$ and $\mathrm{Kcal}{\mathrm{mol}}^{-1}$.

Negative activation energy

1. The activation energy does not depend upon temperature, pressure, volume, and other coefficient factors.
2. If the rate of reaction decreases with the increase of temperature then it is said to be negative activation energy.