Question

A catalyst forms an ______ at ______ potential energy and thus ______ the activation energy of the reaction.

Answer 1

A catalyst forms an activated complex at low potential energy and thus lowers the activation energy of the reaction.

Explanation:

A catalyst provides an alternative pathway. In this new pathway, an activated complex is indeed formed, but at lower potential energy compared to the uncatalysed pathway. This is why the activation energy is lowered.