Contents
Key Stage 3
Meaning
A catalyst is a chemical which can increase the rate of a chemical reaction without being used up in the reaction.
About Catalysts
- A catalyst is neither are reactant nor a product in a reaction but it can make the reaction happen more quickly.
Examples
- Chlorophyll is a catalyst for the reaction that allows plants to turn Carbon Dioxide and Water into Glucose and Oxygen during photosynthesis.
- Manganese Dioxide is a catalyst that speeds up the break down of Hydrogen Peroxide into Water and Oxygen.
- Enzymes are a type of biological catalyst that can speed up reaction inside an organism.
Key Stage 4
Meaning
A catalyst is a chemical which can increase the rate of reaction and lower the activation energy for a particular reaction.