A pile of firewood is more stable as ash and smoke than firewood.

Question

A pile of firewood is more stable as ash and smoke than firewood.

Why does this pile of firewood not immediately release the energy in
Its chemical bonds? (use the word activation energy in your answer)
In 2-3 sentences

Answer 1

The pile of firewood does not immediately release the energy in its chemical bonds because it requires an input of activation energy to initiate the combustion reaction. The activation energy is the minimum amount of energy needed to start a chemical reaction, in this case, the process of wood burning. Without an external source of heat or a spark, the firewood remains stable and does not release its energy.