WAEC - Chemistry (2024 - No. 25)
Catalysts alter reaction rates by
providing an alternative reaction pathway
lowering the energy of reaction
increasing the surface area of reactants
aligning the reactant molecules properly
Explanation
A catalyst alters the rate of a chemical reaction by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, meaning it makes it easier for reactants to reach the transition state and form products, thus significantly increasing the reaction rate without being consumed in the process.