Why does the activation energy of a chemical reaction freque

Why does the activation energy of a chemical reaction frequently prevent a spontaneous reaction from proceeding? How do enzymes allow these spontaneous reactions to proceed?

Solution

This is so because the particular conditions at which the reaction is proceeding are not providing enough energy to push the molecules above the activation energy level.
For example, Propane, which doesn\'t burn at room temperature, but just by giving it a spark of fire, it gets ignited. This spark of fire is the energy which pushes the molecule of propane above the activation energy barrier.

Enzymes are like catalysts. They push the activation energy of the reaction at a lower level.
Hence, the molecules can now cross the barrier much easier, and hence the reaction can proceed at unfavourable conditions too.

I hope this answer helps.
Ping me if you need further help.

Please leave a thumbs up.