catálisis

Catálisis refers to the process of increasing the rate of a chemical reaction by adding a substance known as 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, thereby speeding up the reaction. They are not consumed in the process and can be used repeatedly.

There are two main types of catalysis: homogeneous and heterogeneous. In homogeneous catalysis, the catalyst is in the same phase as the reactants, such as when a liquid catalyst is used in a liquid-phase reaction. In heterogeneous catalysis, the catalyst is in a different phase from the reactants, commonly a solid catalyst in a gas or liquid reaction.

Catalysis is a fundamental concept in chemistry and plays a crucial role in many industrial processes, including the production of ammonia, sulfuric acid, and plastics. It is also essential in biological systems, where enzymes act as biological catalysts to facilitate a vast array of biochemical reactions necessary for life. The study and application of catalysis are vital for developing more efficient and sustainable chemical technologies.