# catalysis

/kætˈæləsˌɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/catalysis
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

the process of making a chemical reaction happen faster by using a special substance. This substance, called a catalyst, stays the same after the reaction is done.

For teachers: the acceleration of a chemical reaction by a substance that is not consumed in the process. Often involves the lowering of the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.

## Examples

- The catalysis of the reaction makes the process much faster.
- In industrial chemistry, catalysis is essential for producing fuels and plastics efficiently without excessive heat.
- The study of enzymatic catalysis has provided profound insights into how biological systems manage to perform complex chemical transformations at room temperature with remarkable specificity.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.