Catalysis

Catalysis is the acceleration of a chemical reaction by the addition of a substance, a catalyst, that is not consumed during the reaction. Catalysts work by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, thus increasing the rate at which the reaction proceeds. This can involve changing the mechanism of the reaction, interacting with reactants to weaken bonds, or providing a surface where the reaction can occur. The catalyst itself remains unchanged at the end of the process. catalysis is crucial in numerous industrial processes and biological systems.

Catalysis meaning with examples

• In the Haber-Bosch process, iron acts as a catalyst to produce ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen at high temperatures and pressures, essential for fertilizer production. Without it the reaction would be too slow to be economical.
• Enzymes, which are biological catalysts, accelerate biochemical reactions within living organisms. For example, amylase breaks down starch, a complex carbohydrate, into simpler sugars, facilitating digestion in humans.
• Automotive catalytic converters use catalysts like platinum and palladium to convert harmful exhaust gases, such as carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, into less harmful substances like carbon dioxide and water.
• In the production of polymers like polyethylene, catalysts are essential for controlling the polymerization process, enabling the creation of various plastics with specific properties for various applications.
• The hydrogenation of unsaturated fats into saturated fats in the food industry utilizes a metal catalyst, typically nickel, to alter the physical and chemical properties of fats and oils.