catalyyttinen

Catalytic refers to a process involving a catalyst. A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change. Catalysts work by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. This means that less energy is required for the reaction to occur, leading to a faster rate. Catalysts can be homogeneous, meaning they are in the same phase as the reactants, or heterogeneous, meaning they are in a different phase. Many industrial processes rely on catalysis, such as the production of ammonia (Haber-Bosch process) and the refining of petroleum. Enzymes are biological catalysts that play crucial roles in living organisms. Catalytic converters in vehicles use catalysts to convert harmful pollutants into less harmful substances. The effectiveness of a catalyst can be influenced by factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of inhibitors.