Concept: A catalyst speeds up a reaction without altering the final products.
Explanation: In this decomposition of potassium chlorate, a catalyst such as manganese(IV) oxide,
MnO2, is often used.
The catalyst lowers the activation energy, allowing the decomposition to happen faster at a moderate temperature.
Oxygen yield is not increased because the catalyst does not change the equilibrium or amount of product.
Heating is still required to start the reaction, so heating cannot be completely avoided.
Thus, the main effect is that the reaction proceeds more quickly at a reduced temperature.
Answer: D. the reaction takes place more rapidly at a lower temperature