Final answer:
The activation energy for the given reaction can be calculated using the Arrhenius equation. By plugging in the appropriate values and solving for Ea, we find that the activation energy is approximately 63.4 kJ/mol.
Step-by-step explanation:
The activation energy (Ea) can be calculated using the Arrhenius equation, which relates the rate constant (k), temperature (T), and frequency factor (A):
ln(k2/k1) = (Ea/R)((1/T1) - (1/T2))
Using the given data:
k1 = 0.0117 s-1 at 400.0 K
k2 = 0.689 s-1 at 450.0 K
T1 = 400.0 K
T2 = 450.0 K
R = 8.314 J/mol K
Plugging in these values:
ln(0.689/0.0117) = ((Ea/8.314)((1/400.0) - (1/450.0)))
Solving for Ea:
Ea ≈ 63.4 kJ/mol
Therefore, the activation energy for this reaction is approximately 63.4 kilojoules per mole.