Final answer:
In an exothermic reaction where the activation energy is larger than the enthalpy change, the transition state of the reaction exists at a higher energy level than the reactants. Activation energy is always positive regardless of whether the reaction is exergonic or endergonic.
Step-by-step explanation:
An exothermic reaction is one where energy is released, resulting in a decrease in the energy of the system. The activation energy is the energy required to start the reaction. In an exothermic reaction where the activation energy is larger than the enthalpy change, the transition state of the reaction exists at a higher energy level than the reactants. Activation energy is always positive regardless of whether the reaction is exergonic or endergonic.