Slope and Intercept (Hard)

Instructions

The Arrhenius equation is used in the study of reaction kinetics. It allows you to use reaction-rate (k) and temperature (T) data to determine the activation energy (Ea) and pre-exponential term (A) for a reaction. Use linear regression to find the slope and y-intercept of the following data. Then, use those quantities to determine Ea. (Hint: take the natural logarithm of both sides of the Arrhenius equation to linearize the equation.) Your value must be precise to at least three significant digits. Select "Check Answer" to see if your answer is correct; select "Give Up" if you want to see the answer.

The Arrhenius equation:

k = A * exp(-Ea/RT)

The data:

     T (K)    k (L mol-1 sec-1)
    278.05       3.14e+03
    300.35       1.59e+04
    330.15       5.72e+04
    333.80       4.95e+04
    371.47       2.22e+05

Activation energy (Ea):  kJ mol-1
University of Oregon, Chemistry Teaching Laboratories
Script written and maintained by: Dr. Christopher Grant [send email]
Last Update: Thursday, 2 October 1997