Which term describes a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process?

• A. Product
• B. Reactant
• C. Inhibitor
• D. Catalyst

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of each term in a chemical reaction: A reactant is a substance that undergoes change during the reaction, and a product is the substance formed as a result of the reaction.
2. Define an inhibitor: It is a substance that decreases the rate of a chemical reaction by interfering with the reaction mechanism.
3. Define a catalyst: It is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed or permanently changed in the process.
4. Recognize that the catalyst works by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction, allowing the reaction to proceed faster.
5. Conclude that the term describing a substance that increases the reaction rate without being consumed is 'catalyst'.