Choose the correct statement from the following:

The rate of a reaction is generally accelerated by the presence of a catalyst.

The correct answer is option 3. The rate of a reaction is generally accelerated by the presence of a catalyst.

The correct statement from the options provided is the rate of a reaction is generally accelerated by the presence of a catalyst.

1. The presence of a catalyst makes the value of \(\Delta G^o\) more negative. This statement is incorrect. A catalyst does not affect the standard Gibbs free energy change (\(\Delta G^o\)) of a reaction. Instead, a catalyst provides an alternative reaction pathway with lower activation energy, but it does not alter the thermodynamics of the reaction.

2. A catalyst does not affect the rate of reaction. This statement is incorrect. A catalyst typically increases the rate of a reaction by providing an alternative reaction pathway with lower activation energy. It lowers the energy barrier for the reaction to occur, thereby increasing the rate of reaction.

3. The rate of a reaction is generally accelerated by the presence of a catalyst. This statement is correct. Catalysts speed up the rate of reaction by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed. They achieve this by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy barrier, allowing more reactant molecules to overcome the barrier and form products in a given time.

4. A catalyst does not affect the energy of activation (\(E_a\)). This statement is incorrect. A catalyst lowers the energy of activation (\(E_a\)) required for the reaction to proceed. It provides an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy barrier, making it easier for reactant molecules to reach the transition state and form products.

Therefore, option (3) is the correct statement.