The correct statements among the following is:

a. Catalyst provides an alternative pathway to the reaction mechanism
b. Catalyst raises the activation energy
c. A catalyst lowers the activation energy
d. Catalyst alters enthalpy change of the reaction


1. (a, b)
2. (b, c)
3. (c, d)
4. (a, c)

Hint: A catalyst lowers the activation energy
 

The function of catalyst:  As the catalyst is added to the reaction medium, the rate of reaction increases by decreasing the activation energy of the molecule. Hence, it follows an alternative pathway.

Catalyst does not change the enthalpy change of the reaction. The energy of reactant and product remains the same in both catalyzed and uncatalyzed reactions.

Hence, (a) and (c) are correct statements.