Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The given equation relates the rate constant (\(k\)) of a reaction to temperature (\(T\)). This is a form of the Arrhenius equation, which quantitatively describes the effect of temperature on reaction rates. We can find the activation energy (\(E_a\)) by comparing the given equation to the standard logarithmic form of the Arrhenius equation.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
The Arrhenius equation is \(k = A e^{-E_a/RT}\).
Taking the base-10 logarithm of both sides gives:
\[ \log_{10} k = \log_{10} A - \frac{E_a}{2.303RT} \]
We will compare this standard form with the given equation:
\[ \log k(s⁻¹) = 7.14 - \frac{1 \times 10^4 K}{T} \]
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
By comparing the two equations, we can equate the temperature-dependent terms:
\[ \frac{E_a}{2.303RT} = \frac{1 \times 10^4 K}{T} \]
The temperature \(T\) cancels from both sides of the equation:
\[ \frac{E_a}{2.303R} = 1 \times 10^4 K \]
Now, we can solve for the activation energy, \(E_a\):
\[ E_a = (1 \times 10^4) \times 2.303 \times R \]
Substitute the value of R = 8.314 J K⁻¹ mol⁻¹:
\[ E_a = 10000 \times 2.303 \times 8.314 \text{ J mol}^{-1} \]
\[ E_a = 191471.42 \text{ J mol}^{-1} \]
The question asks for the answer in kJ mol⁻¹, so we divide by 1000:
\[ E_a = \frac{191471.42}{1000} \text{ kJ mol}^{-1} = 191.47 \text{ kJ mol}^{-1} \]
This value is closest to 191.1 kJ mol⁻¹.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The activation energy of the reaction is approximately 191.1 kJ mol⁻¹. Therefore, option (D) is correct.