Why does every chemical reaction require a certain amount of activation energy?
A. Energy is released when the reactants begin to react.
B. Energy lost to the environment during the reaction must be replaced. Forming the activated complex requires energy.
D. The products have more potential energy than the activated complex.
E. The reactants have less potential energy than the products.

Every chemical reaction requires a certain amount of activation energy because it serves as the energy barrier that reactants must overcome to transform into products. Think of it like a hill; you need enough energy to climb to the top before rolling down the other side! This activation energy allows the reactants to reach a higher energy state, forming an activated complex where old bonds can break and new ones can form.

In many chemical reactions, particularly endothermic ones, the reactants start with lower potential energy compared to the products. This change necessitates a boost of energy to jumpstart the reaction, which can be thought of as lighting a fire to get a bonfire started. Once the reaction is underway, it can continue, often releasing energy in the process, but that initial push is essential!