Catalysts influence multi-step reactions by providing alternative pathways with lower activation energies. This can involve: 1. Adsorption: Reactants adsorb onto the catalyst surface, facilitating bond breaking and formation. 2. Intermediate Formation: Catalysts stabilize reaction intermediates, making subsequent steps more favorable. 3. Desorption: Final products desorb from the catalyst surface, making the active sites available for new reactants.
