❓ why
Why does a catalyst speed up a chemical reaction?
Quick Answer
A catalyst provides an easier reaction pathway with lower activation energy. It is not used up, so it can keep helping the reaction proceed faster.
The Full Story
Chemical reactions often need an initial push to get started, called activation energy. A catalyst lowers that barrier by offering an alternative route, such as bringing reactants together in the right orientation or stabilizing an intermediate state. Because the catalyst is regenerated at the end, it can take part repeatedly. Catalysts are essential in industry, from ammonia production in the Haber-Bosch process to catalytic converters in cars.
Key Facts
1.Catalysts lower activation energy
2.They are not consumed overall
3.The Haber-Bosch process was developed in the early 1900s
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why a tiny substance can make reactions race ahead."
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