What are catalysts and how do they work?

What are catalysts and how do they work?

Catalysts are substances that speed up chemical reactions without being consumed. They lower the activation energy needed.

Can you give me an example of a catalyst in everyday life?

Sure! An example is the catalytic converter in cars, which helps convert harmful gases into less harmful emissions.

Are all catalysts the same, or are there different types?

There are different types of catalysts, including homogeneous catalysts, which are in the same phase as the reactants, and heterogeneous catalysts, which are in a different phase.

How do enzymes fit into the category of catalysts?

Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up biochemical reactions in living organisms, often with high specificity.