A Level Chemistry OCR Practice Exam 2025 - Free Chemistry Practice Questions and Study Guide

Question: 1 / 400

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

To change the final product

To increase the temperature of the reaction

To increase the rate of reaction without being consumed

The main role of a catalyst in a chemical reaction is to increase the rate of reaction without being consumed in the process. A catalyst achieves this by providing an alternative pathway for the reaction to occur, which has a lower activation energy than the uncatalyzed reaction. This allows more reactant molecules to have sufficient energy to react at a given temperature, leading to an increase in the reaction rate.

Importantly, after the reaction has occurred, the catalyst remains unchanged in its chemical composition and can be used repeatedly in subsequent reactions. This characteristic sets catalysts apart from reactants, which are consumed during the reaction, and from products, which are formed as a result of the reaction. The ability to speed up reactions without being used up makes catalysts essential in various industrial processes and helps improve efficiency in both chemical reactions and energy use.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

To act as a reactant

Next Question

Report this question

Download A Level Chemistry OCR Practice Exam PDF Study Guide
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy