Catalysts affect a chemical reaction primarily by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. This means that the reaction can proceed more easily and often at a faster rate without being consumed in the process.
So, the correct answer is lower activation energy.
To clarify the other options:
- Catalysts do not lose activation energy; they facilitate the reaction without being depleted themselves.
- Catalysts do not increase activation energy; their purpose is to reduce it.
- Catalysts do not provide activation energy; they simply make it easier for the reaction to take place by lowering the energy barrier.