Which of the following statements best describes how a catalyst works

Correct answer: C. A catalyst lowers the activation energy barrier for the reaction by providing a different reaction mechanism.

  • A. A catalyst changes the potential energies of the reactants and products
  • B. A catalyst decreases the temperature of the reaction which leads to a faster rate
  • C. A catalyst lowers the activation energy barrier for the reaction by providing a different reaction mechanism.
  • D. A catalyst raises the activation energy for the reaction which produces a faster rate

Explanation

Catalysts function by providing an alternate reaction mechanism that has a lower activation energy.Note that a catalyst decreases the activation energy for both the forward and the backward reactions hence, accelerates both the forward and the backward reactions.

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