Definition

The process of speeding up a chemical reaction by using a substance that does not change during the reaction.

Example

The scientist studied the effects of catalysis on the reaction rate.

Conversation

I was reading about how catalysis can speed up chemical reactions.

That's interesting! How does that actually work?

Well, it involves a catalyst that remains unchanged after the reaction.

So, it basically helps the reaction happen faster without getting used up?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Catalysis is formed from "cata-" (from Greek "kata", meaning down or against) and "lysis" (from Greek "lysis", meaning loosening or breaking down). The word describes a process that breaks down substances, often in a chemical reaction.

Memory Tip

Think of 'breaking down' ('lysis') something 'against' or 'down' ('cata-') — that's what catalysis means.

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