Consider the Reaction Coordinate Diagram Shown Below for the Conversion

question 11

Essay

Consider the reaction coordinate diagram shown below for the conversion of substrate (S) to product (P) via two different reaction pathways that involve different transition states
(‡ and ‡*). Assume that one pathway involves a catalyst and one does not. Decide which pathway involves the catalyst and explain your logic.

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Definitions:

Valproate

A medication commonly used to treat seizure disorders, bipolar disorder, and to prevent migraine headaches.

Gabapentin

is a medication commonly used to treat nerve pain, epilepsy, and sometimes restless legs syndrome or postherpetic neuralgia.

Hippocampus

A region of the brain involved in forming, organizing, and storing memories, crucial for learning and spatial navigation.

Temporal Lobe

A region of the brain located beneath the temples, crucial for processing sensory input and involved in memory, emotion, and language.