Arrhenius Transition State

Reaction rate k = A·exp(−Ea/RT) — energy barriers, catalysis, and Eyring equation

Activation Ea: 50 kJ/mol
Temperature T: 300 K
Catalyst (ΔEa): 0 kJ/mol
Pre-factor A: 1e12

Arrhenius (1889): k = A·exp(−Ea/RT). The Eyring-Polanyi (transition state theory) form is k = (k_BT/h)·exp(−ΔG‡/RT), connecting the pre-exponential factor to entropy and the frequency of bond vibrations. Catalysts provide an alternative pathway with lower activation energy, increasing rate without shifting equilibrium. An Arrhenius plot (ln k vs 1/T) gives slope −Ea/R.