A sample of propane gas, \(\text{C}_3\text{H}_8\text{(g)}\), is mixed with excess oxygen gas, \(\text{O}_2\text{(g)}\), in a sealed, rigid container at \(298\text{ K}\). The combustion reaction is represented by the equation below.

\[ \text{C}_3\text{H}_8\text{(g)} + 5\,\text{O}_2\text{(g)} \rightarrow 3\,\text{CO}_2\text{(g)} + 4\,\text{H}_2\text{O(g)} \quad \Delta G^\circ_{298} = -2074\text{ kJ/mol}_{rxn} \]

Although the reaction is thermodynamically favorable at \(298\text{ K}\), no formation of products is detected after several days. When a small piece of platinum mesh is introduced into the container, the reaction proceeds rapidly. Which of the following best explains why the uncatalyzed mixture does not react at a measurable rate and describes the role of the platinum catalyst?