In any reaction, catalyst
(A) retards the rate of reaction
(B) increases the rate of reaction
(C) both increases and decreases the rate of reaction
(D) none of these
In any reaction, catalyst
(A) retards the rate of reaction
(B) increases the rate of reaction
(C) both increases and decreases the rate of reaction
(D) none of these

Answer:

Increases the rate of reaction

Explanation:

Most catalysts work by lowering the ‘activation energy’ of a reaction. This allows less energy to be used, thus speeding up the reaction. The opposite of a catalyst is an inhibitor. Inhibitors slow down reactions.