Question

Which statement most accurately describes the behavior of a catalyst?

A) A catalyst increases the overall energy of a chemical reaction.
B) A catalyst initiates a chemical reaction but is not consumed in the process.
C) A catalyst slows down the rate of a chemical reaction.
D) A catalyst only works in specific temperature conditions.

Answer 1

A catalyst is a substance that increases the speed of a reaction. It is not a reactant and is not used up in the process. Instead, it affects how fast a reaction proceeds.

Step-by-step explanation:

A catalyst is a substance that increases the speed of a reaction. Overall, a catalyst is not a reactant and is not used up, but it still affects how fast a reaction proceeds. However, a catalyst does not affect the extent or position of a reaction at equilibrium. It helps a reaction achieve equilibrium faster.