Catalysts: The Substances That Speed Up Reactions

A catalyst speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up itself.
It works by lowering the activation energy needed for the reaction.
Enzymes are natural catalysts that make life-sustaining reactions possible in cells.
The catalytic converter in cars reduces harmful exhaust gases into safer forms.
Catalysts can make reactions millions of times faster than normal.
They don’t change the final products—only how quickly they’re made.
Industrial catalysts help produce fuels, plastics, medicines, and fertilizers.
Many catalysts are metals like platinum, nickel, or iron.
Green chemistry relies on catalysts to reduce waste and save energy.
Without catalysts, life and industry as we know them wouldn’t exist.