Catalysts influence reaction pathways by providing an alternative mechanism with a lower activation energy. This can involve the stabilization of transition states, the formation of reactive intermediates, or the facilitation of bond-breaking and bond-forming processes. For instance, in [heterogeneous catalysis](), the surface of the catalyst can adsorb reactants and bring them into close proximity, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful collisions. In [homogeneous catalysis](), transition metal complexes can form intermediates that are more reactive than the original reactants.
