Science Common Sense

1766 - What is the nature and application of catalysts and enzymes.

What are Catalysts and Enzymes?

Catalysts and enzymes are substances that help speed up chemical reactions without being used up in the process.

Nature of Catalysts and Enzymes:

• Catalysts are usually made of metals or other elements that can do the same job over and over again.
• Enzymes are special proteins found in living things that help chemical reactions happen faster.
• Both catalysts and enzymes work by lowering the energy needed for a reaction to occur.

Applications of Catalysts:

• Cars use catalysts to clean up pollution and make exhaust pipe gases safer.
• Chemical factories use catalysts to make useful products like plastics and fertilizers.
• Oil refineries use catalysts to turn crude oil into gasoline and other fuels.

Applications of Enzymes:

• Digestive enzymes in our stomach and intestines help break down food into nutrients our bodies can use.
• Enzymes are used in washing powders to remove tough stains and make clothes cleaner.
• Biological washing powders use enzymes to clean old clothes by breaking down tough stains.

In summary, catalysts and enzymes help make chemical reactions happen faster, and they have many practical uses in our daily lives.