A student compares three possible pathways for the same reaction at the same temperature. Pathway U is uncatalyzed, whereas pathways P and Q use different catalysts. The potential-energy profiles are shown. For this comparison, the frequency factor, \(A\), in the Arrhenius equation is the same for all three pathways. The corresponding forward rate constants are \(k_U\), \(k_P\), and \(k_Q\).

Which ranking of the forward rate constants is correct, and which statement best explains the ranking?