a. Using the free energy profile for a simple one- step reaction, show that at equilibrium K = kf/kr, where kf and kr are the rate constants for the forward and reverse reactions. Hint: Use the relationship ΔGo = 2RT ln(K), and represent kf and kr using the Arrhenius equation (k = Ae2Ea/RT).

b. Why is the following statement false? €œA catalyst can increase the rate of a forward reaction but not the rate of the reverse reaction.€

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Ea (forward) Reactants Ea (reverse AG PRSProducts Reaction coordinate