Catalysts are used in the oil industry to increase octane ratings in gasoline. Octane ratings tell how much fuel has to be compressed to promote better fuel ignition in some cars. Which of the following catalytic effects would be most beneficial for the oil industry?

A catalyst speeds up a reaction by lowering its activation energy, so the reaction can proceed under less demanding conditions. Using lower temperatures and pressures can reduce the energy and operating costs of producing higher-octane gasoline. A catalyst does not, by itself, make more product from a given amount of starting material, so choice D is not the best answer.

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