A certain compound A is converted into a compound B in a reaction without intermediates. The reaction has an equilibrium constant K_eq = [B]/[A] = 150 and, with the free energy of A as a reference point, a standard free energy of activation of 96 kJ mol^–1 (23 kcal mol^–1).

(a) Draw a reaction free-energy diagram for this process, showing the relative free energies of A, B, and the transition state for the reaction.

(b) What is the standard free energy of activation for the reverse reaction B → A? How do you know?