Catalyst
| Formula / Notation | Ea reduced via alternative pathway; rate = k[A]^m[B]^n |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Chemical catalyst, Homogeneous catalyst, Heterogeneous catalyst, Biocatalyst |
What is Catalyst?
A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process, by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. Catalysts are recovered unchanged at the end of the reaction. They can be homogeneous (same phase as reactants) or heterogeneous (different phase). Enzymes are biological catalysts.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Chemical catalyst, Homogeneous catalyst, Heterogeneous catalyst, Biocatalyst
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process, by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. Catalysts are recovered unchanged at the end of the reaction. They can be homogeneous (same phase as reactants) or heterogeneous (different phase). Enzymes are biological catalysts.
Industrial synthesis of ammonia (iron catalyst). Petroleum cracking and reforming (zeolite catalysts). Catalytic converters in vehicles (Pt, Pd, Rh — converts CO, NOx, hydrocarbons). Contact process for H₂SO₄ (V₂O₅). Polymerization catalysts (Ziegler-Natta for polyethylene). Enzyme catalysts in brew…
Catalysts can dramatically accelerate reactions — ensure thermal management before introducing catalysts into exothermic systems. Pyrophoric catalysts (finely divided Pt, Raney nickel) ignite spontaneously in air — handle under inert atmosphere. Some industrial catalysts are toxic (chromium oxide, n…
The formula or notation for Catalyst is: Ea reduced via alternative pathway; rate = k[A]^m[B]^n