How does a catalyst influence a chemical reaction?

• A. It changes the equilibrium position of the reaction.
• B. It lowers the activation energy, increasing the reaction rate without being consumed.
• C. It is consumed during the reaction and becomes part of the products.
• D. It increases the activation energy, slowing down the reaction.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that a catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.
2. Recall that the activation energy (\[E_a\]) is the minimum energy required for reactants to transform into products.
3. Recognize that a catalyst works by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy (\[E_a\]), which makes it easier for reactants to convert into products.
4. Note that because the catalyst lowers the activation energy, the reaction rate increases, but the catalyst itself is not used up or permanently changed.
5. Understand that a catalyst does not change the equilibrium position of the reaction; it only helps the system reach equilibrium faster.