Question

Catalysts affect forward and reverse reactions ______ so that equilibrium concentrations are the same in both the presence and the absence of the catalyst.

Option 1: Differently.
Option 2: Equally.
Option 3: Oppositely.
Option 4: Minimally.

Answer 1

Catalysts affect the forward and reverse reactions equally, hence the correct answer for filling in the blank is 'Equally', which means that they speed up the rate at which equilibrium is reached without altering the equilibrium constant or concentrations.

Step-by-step explanation:

Catalysts affect forward and reverse reactions equally, so that equilibrium concentrations remain unchanged whether a catalyst is present or not. Catalysts accelerate the approach to equilibrium by reducing the activation energy needed for both the forward and reverse reactions, but they do not alter the equilibrium constant. This characteristic allows the reaction to reach equilibrium sooner, without changing the equilibrium concentrations or the overall extent of the reaction.

The activation energy is lowered for both the forward and the reverse reaction in the presence of a catalyst. However, this does not result in any change in the equilibrium constant. It simply means that the same state of equilibrium is reached more quickly.

In relation to the student's multiple-choice question, the correct option that fills in the blank is Option 2: Equally. Catalysts affect forward and reverse reactions equally, resulting in the same equilibrium concentrations.