In terms of chemical reactions, what does a catalyst do?

A catalyst plays a critical role in chemical reactions by decreasing the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed. This means that the presence of a catalyst allows the reaction to occur more readily and at a faster rate without altering the overall outcome or products of the reaction. The lowered activation energy increases the number of reactant molecules that can successfully undergo the transformation into products at a given temperature, making the reaction more efficient.

In addition to this primary function, catalysts remain unchanged in the course of the reaction, meaning they can be used repeatedly for the same reaction without being consumed. They do not affect the reactants' chemical composition or the equilibrium position of reversible reactions; they simply help the system reach equilibrium faster. This characteristic is crucial for many industrial processes where time and efficiency are vital.

Understanding the role of a catalyst highlights the importance of these substances in both organic and inorganic chemistry and their applications in manufacturing and environmental processes.