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Activation energy: Kickstarting chemical reactions - Vance Kite

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TEDEd Animation

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Chemical reactions are constantly happening in your body -- even at this very moment. But what catalyzes these important reactions? Vance Kite explains how enzymes assist the process, while providing a light-hearted way to remember how activation energy works.

The work part of a chemical reaction happens in moving reactants towards their transition state. Explain why the body does not need to put in any more energy once the substrate has reached its transition state.

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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Director Adriana Santamaría
  • Producer José Alejandro Plata
  • Animator Martha Perea
  • Educator Vance Kite
  • Narrator Vance Kite

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