For a certain elementary step, the forward activation energy is 80kJ mol−1 and the reverse activation energy is 30kJ mol−1. Which of the following gives the enthalpy change and thermodynamic character of the forward reaction?
a) ΔH=+80kJ mol−1; the forward reaction is endothermic
b) ΔH=+50kJ mol−1; the forward reaction is endothermic
c) ΔH=−50kJ mol−1; the forward reaction is exothermic
d) ΔH=+110kJ mol−1; the forward reaction is endothermic