What role does a catalyst play in a chemical reaction?

A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. This means that it can participate in the reaction, facilitating the transformation of reactants into products, and then remain unchanged at the end of the reaction. By providing an alternative pathway with a lower activation energy, catalysts help to speed up reactions, making them proceed faster than they would without the catalyst.

This is essential in many industrial processes as catalysts can enhance efficiency and yield while saving energy. The role of a catalyst is crucial in various biological and chemical systems, as it allows reactions to occur at lower temperatures and pressures than would otherwise be necessary.

While some other substances in a reaction may be altered in concentration or form, a catalyst distinctly retains its original chemical identity, which sets it apart from reactants and products in that respect.