Which statement best describes the benefits of catalysts for green chemistry?

• A. Catalysts always produce toxic byproducts, making chemical processes less environmentally friendly.
• B. Catalysts are consumed during reactions, leading to increased resource use and waste generation.
• C. Catalysts prevent reactions from occurring, thereby minimizing chemical production.
• D. Catalysts increase reaction rates and allow chemical processes to occur under milder conditions, reducing energy consumption and waste.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of catalysts in chemical reactions: Catalysts increase the rate of a reaction without being consumed in the process.
2. Recognize that catalysts allow reactions to proceed under milder conditions, such as lower temperatures and pressures, which reduces energy consumption.
3. Note that by increasing reaction efficiency, catalysts help minimize the formation of unwanted byproducts and waste, contributing to greener chemical processes.
4. Identify that catalysts do not prevent reactions; instead, they facilitate them, making processes more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
5. Conclude that the main benefit of catalysts in green chemistry is their ability to speed up reactions while reducing energy use and waste generation, aligning with the principles of sustainability.