What is the primary function of a catalyst in a chemical reaction?

The primary function of a catalyst in a chemical reaction is to increase the reaction rate without being consumed in the overall process. This is achieved by providing an alternative reaction pathway that has a lower activation energy compared to the uncatalyzed reaction. By lowering the activation energy, the catalyst allows more reactant molecules to have enough kinetic energy to successfully collide and react, which in turn accelerates the rate at which products are formed.

Unlike the other components, a catalyst does not alter the equilibrium position of the reaction or result in the formation of new products. Instead, it merely enhances the rate at which equilibrium is reached. Furthermore, at the end of the reaction, the catalyst remains unchanged and can be used again, making it a highly efficient component in various chemical processes. Thus, the essence of a catalyst is its ability to facilitate and speed up chemical reactions while remaining unaltered itself.