Answer:
Explanation:
Catalysis is a process that accelerates chemical reactions due to molecules called catalysts, which provide ways to reach products that require less energy.
A catalyst intervenes in the reaction mechanism, but is not consumed. This means that the catalyst participates in some stage of the reaction, but then regenerates.
In addition, a catalyst is used in a small amount: a minimum mole percentage, with respect to reagents, is usually required to observe an increase in velocity.
There are three types of catalysis:
- Homogeneous: the catalyst is present in the same phase as the species that react.
- Heterogeneous: the catalyst and reagents are in a different phase.
- Enzyme: occurs only in living beings, and in these cases the catalysts are enzymes.
The absence of a catalyst can make the reaction so slow that it never occurs. Therefore, when the catalyst of a reaction is removed, the reaction may stop.
