Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes how a catalyst works in a chemical reaction?
15. Chemical Kinetics
Catalyst
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the role of a catalyst in a chemical reaction?
A
It increases the rate of the reaction by lowering the activation energy.
B
It is consumed during the reaction and becomes part of the products.
C
It raises the activation energy, making the reaction slower.
D
It increases the equilibrium constant of the reaction.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that a catalyst is a substance that affects the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.
Recall that the activation energy (\(E_a\)) is the minimum energy required for reactants to transform into products during a reaction.
Recognize that a catalyst works by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, which increases the reaction rate.
Note that a catalyst does not change the equilibrium constant (\(K\)) of the reaction; it only helps the system reach equilibrium faster.
Conclude that the correct description of a catalyst's role is that it increases the rate of the reaction by lowering the activation energy.
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