Catalysis

Catalysis, from Greek katalysis =dissolution, describes the acceleration or deceleration of the kinetics (speed) of a chemical reaction by substances = catalysts, which themselves are usually only present in small quantities.

By definition, a catalyst is a substance that increases the speed of a chemical reaction without itself being consumed and without changing the final position of the thermodynamic equilibrium of this reaction (Wilhelm Ostwald 1909).

Catalysis, from Greek katalysis =dissolution, refers to the acceleration or deceleration of the kinetics (speed) of a chemical reaction by substances, catalysts, which themselves are usually only present in small quantities.

By definition, a catalyst is a substance that increases the speed of a chemical reaction without itself being consumed and without changing the final position of the thermodynamic equilibrium of this reaction (Wilhelm Ostwald 1909).

Catalysts in biology: In living cells, enzymes act as catalysts and play an essential role in the metabolism of plants and animals by initiating or maintaining biochemical processes.

Catalysts in the environmental field: here metals (e.g. silver, platinum) in colloidal form are used as catalysts to reduce pollutants in cars and power plants.