How do catalysts function to increase the rate of a reaction?

Catalysts function by providing an alternative reaction pathway that has a lower activation energy compared to the uncatalyzed reaction. This means that more reactant molecules have sufficient energy to overcome the energy barrier necessary for the reaction to occur. As a result, the likelihood of successful collisions between reactant molecules increases, leading to a faster reaction rate.

In essence, while catalysts do not alter the overall energy change of a reaction, they significantly facilitate the process by making it easier for reactants to transform into products. This is crucial in both biological systems, where enzymes act as biological catalysts, and in various industrial processes where catalysts are used to enhance efficiency and yield.