A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself being consumed in the process. It achieves this by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur, making the process more efficient. Catalysts can also enhance the selectivity of a reaction, directing it to produce more of the desired product and reduce unwanted byproducts. They can be used to produce new materials with various potential uses, such as biodegradable plastics, pharmaceuticals, and environmentally safer fuels and fertilizers.
Catalysts can be biological, such as enzymes, or non-biological, such as transition metal catalysts used in catalytic converters in cars. They can be classified into different types, including enzymes, acid-base catalysts, and heterogeneous (or surface) catalysts. Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts in biochemical reactions, while heterogeneous catalysts, for example, are used in catalytic converters to reduce pollutants in exhaust streams.
In summary, a catalyst is a crucial component in chemical reactions, enabling faster, more energy-efficient processes and the production of a wide range of materials with various applications.
