Catalyst effect on reverse rxn

[Callista OConnor]

Why does a catalyst also increase the rate of the reverse reaction? Is this only for a specific type of reaction, like endothermic vs exothermic, or is this true for all rxns?

[Charlotte Norris 2K]

Because catalysts are not consumed in the reaction, the pathway created is available for use in the reverse reaction, thus increasing its reaction rate as well.

[106046096]

Hi! This is true for all equations because it decreases activation energy, which is a necessary part of both the forward and reverse rates.

[Melody L Lehman 2C]

Catalysts lower the Ea of a whole reaction, meaning the forward and reverse reaction would both happen at higher rates because the enthalpy threshold for both reactions is lower in the presence of a catalyst. Catalysts do not cause a change in reactant or product concentration, so the equilibrium constant of the reaction is the same. This is true for all reactions that use a catalyst and does not rely on a reaction being endothermic or exothermic.

[CeeJay Chhum 1L]

This is because what a catalyst does is make an alternative pathway with a lower activation energy like making the orientation easier to get into for a reaction to occur. So, in a diagram of the reaction process, the Ea (or the height of the mountain from the start to peak whether it is going fwd or rev) will lower. With a lower hill to get over (or thresh hold Ea), both reverse and forward reaction will have lower activation energy and the rates of both reactions will increase.