What is the role of a catalyst in a chemical reaction?

A catalyst plays a crucial role in chemical reactions by increasing the reaction rate without being consumed in the process. This is achieved by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed. By providing an alternative pathway for the reaction, catalysts allow more reactant molecules to successfully collide with sufficient energy, thereby increasing the likelihood of reactive interactions.

Importantly, because catalysts are not consumed during the reaction, they can facilitate multiple reactions over time, making them efficient agents in both biological and industrial processes. This characteristic is what sets catalysts apart from other substances that may be involved in a reaction.