What is a catalyst and how does it affect a chemical reaction?

A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without beingconsumed in the process. It provides an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, allowingmore particles to collide with sufficient energy to react.

This question tests the understandingof the role of catalysts in chemical reactions, specifically their ability to alter reaction rates without beingused up. It assesses recall of the definition and function of catalysts.