How does activation energy affect chemical reactions?

Enzymes affect the rate of the reaction in both the forward and reverse directions; the reaction proceeds faster because less energy is required for molecules to react when they collide. Thus, the rate constant (k) increases. Figure 3: Lowering the Activation Energy of a Reaction by a Catalyst.

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A lower activation energy means more rate of reaction.

Explanation:

The activation energy is the extra minimum amount of energy required by reactant molecules to undergo a chemical reaction.

All reactant molecules have an inherent internal energy. They need to cross an energy barrier known as activation energy, to undergo conversion to product. The energy is required for effective collision between reactant molecules.