Autokatalüsaatori

Autokatalüsaator refers to a phenomenon in chemistry where a reaction product also acts as a catalyst for the reaction itself. This means that as the reaction proceeds and produces more of a certain substance, that substance speeds up the reaction further. The term "autokatalüüs" originates from Greek words "auto" meaning self and "katalysis" meaning loosening or dissolving.

In an autokatalytic reaction, the rate of reaction increases over time as the concentration of the catalytic product builds up. This leads to a characteristic curve where the reaction rate starts slowly, accelerates, and then eventually slows down as reactants are consumed. This pattern is often observed in various chemical processes, including some organic reactions and certain biological pathways.

Examples of autokatalysis can be found in the oxidation of certain inorganic compounds, such as the oxidation of iodide ions by hydrogen peroxide. In this case, iodide ions are consumed and also produced as intermediates, with the produced iodide ions catalyzing the further oxidation of iodide. Autokatalysis plays a role in industrial processes and is also a concept studied in understanding complex reaction mechanisms. The study of autokatalytic reactions is important for predicting reaction behavior and controlling reaction rates in various scientific and technological applications.