catalyses

Catalysis is a process that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change. A substance that performs this function is called a catalyst. Catalysts are important in many industrial processes, such as the production of ammonia, sulfuric acid, and plastics. They are also found in biological systems, where enzymes act as biological catalysts.

The mechanism by which a catalyst works is by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. This means that the reaction can proceed more quickly at a given temperature. Catalysts can be homogeneous or heterogeneous. Homogeneous catalysts are in the same phase as the reactants, while heterogeneous catalysts are in a different phase. For example, a solid catalyst used in a liquid-phase reaction would be a heterogeneous catalyst.

Catalysts are not consumed in the reaction and can therefore be used in small amounts. However, catalysts can become deactivated over time, for example by poisoning or fouling. Catalysis is a fundamental concept in chemistry and has a wide range of applications. It plays a crucial role in energy production, environmental protection, and the synthesis of essential chemicals.