Question

Define the term - 'catalyst':

• A. increases the rate of reaction.
• B. decreases the rate of reaction.
• C. can increase or decrease the rate of reaction.
• D. none of these

Answer 1

The correct option is C can increase or decrease the rate of reaction.

As per definition,

Catalyst is basically a chemical substance that alters the rate of a chemical reaction without any contribution in the product formation.

As it clearly states that it "alters",

It can be anything either increasing or decreasing.

Hence, option $\text{C}$ is the correct answer