A match must be struck against an object to produce a spark to start the burning process. Once the match starts burning, it releases a large amount of energy. Describe, in detail, what the potential energy diagram would look like for the burning of a match, and explain in simple words how each part of the diagram relates to the process described above.

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anonymous · Answer

the overall reaction is exothermic because of a great release of energy. that is why the products are in a lower position in the energy axis (loss of energy to the environment). the activation energy (the hill between the reactants and the products is high in energy (this is why you have to strike the match against the object).|dw:1345750625754:dw|