⚗️ Catalyst
A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself being consumed or permanently altered in the process. It works by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, allowing the reaction to occur more easily and quickly.
⚙️ How a Catalyst Works
In a chemical reaction, particles must collide with enough energy to overcome the activation energy barrier. A catalyst lowers this barrier, so more particles can react upon collision. However, it does not affect the position of equilibrium or the final amount of product formed.
🧪 Example:
Manganese dioxide (MnO₂) acts as a catalyst in the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) into water and oxygen:
2H₂O₂ → 2H₂O + O₂ (with MnO₂ as catalyst)
The MnO₂ speeds up the reaction but remains unchanged at the end.
📌 Key Characteristics:
- Speeds up reactions by lowering activation energy
- Is not used up during the reaction
- Can be reused repeatedly
- Does not alter the chemical equilibrium
🧠 Note:
Biological catalysts are called enzymes. These are highly specific and efficient catalysts found in living organisms that control metabolic reactions.