Step 1: Study the equation
\(k = Ae^{-E_a/RT}\). A larger \(k\) means a faster reaction.
Step 2: Effect of each factor
Decreasing \(E_a\) makes the exponent less negative, so the exponential term and \(k\) increase. So the reaction goes faster.
Decreasing \(k\) obviously slows the reaction. Decreasing \(A\) lowers \(k\). Decreasing \(T\) makes the exponent more negative, so \(k\) falls.
Final Answer:
A decrease in activation energy speeds up the reaction.
\[ \boxed{\text{(C)}\ E_a} \]