Which term describes a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of different substances in a chemical reaction: Reactants are substances that undergo change, products are substances formed, inhibitors slow down reactions, and catalysts speed up reactions.
2. Recall the definition of a catalyst: A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed or permanently altered in the process.
3. Recognize that unlike reactants and products, catalysts are not used up; they facilitate the reaction by lowering the activation energy required.
4. Identify that an inhibitor is the opposite of a catalyst because it decreases the reaction rate.
5. Conclude that the term describing a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being consumed is 'Catalyst'.