The reaction C6H6 + O2 → CO2 + H2O has an activation energy (Ea) of 425 kJ/mol, and the Ea of the reverse reaction is 960 kJ/mol. Estimate ΔE, in kJ/mol, for the reaction as written above.

Answer 1

Since Ea for the reverse reaction is greater than that for the forward reaction, this tells us the reaction is exothermic, so ∆E must be negative.

425 - 960 = - 535 kJ/mol = ∆E