What role do catalysts serve in refining processes?

Catalysts are essential in refining processes because they speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. This characteristic allows them to facilitate reactions at lower temperatures or pressures than would be required if the reactions occurred without a catalyst, making the refining process more efficient and cost-effective. By providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, catalysts help to increase the rate of reaction, leading to higher production rates and yield.

While options concerning cooling reaction temperatures or slowing down reactions do not accurately describe the function of catalysts, it's important to note that catalysts do not eliminate unwanted by-products entirely. Instead, their primary role is to enhance the rate of desired chemical reactions while potentially leading to a more favorable product distribution.