What is the role of catalysts in chemical reactions?

Catalysts play a crucial role in chemical reactions by accelerating the rate of the reaction without being consumed or permanently altered in the process. This means that after the reaction occurs, the catalyst remains unchanged and can facilitate additional reactions. By lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed, catalysts make it easier for reactants to collide and form products. This results in a faster reaction time, which is particularly valuable in both industrial processes and biological systems.

The increase in reaction speed without having to increase the quantity of reactants is a significant advantage, allowing reactions to achieve equilibrium more rapidly and efficiently. The effectiveness of a catalyst can impact various practical applications, from manufacturing to environmental processes.