Science
What is A catalyst?
A catalyst is a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being used up itself. It gives the reaction an easier path, so it happens faster or at a lower temperature — then the catalyst comes out unchanged, ready to work again. Enzymes in your body are natural catalysts.
See it, don’t just read it.
Watch a 2-minute lesson with voice + animation that explains a catalyst.
Key things to understand
- 1Speeds up a reaction without being consumed.
- 2Gives the reaction an easier, lower-energy path.
- 3Comes out unchanged and reusable.
- 4Enzymes are the body's natural catalysts.
Frequently asked questions
- How does a catalyst speed up a reaction?
- It lowers the activation energy — the 'hill' a reaction must climb — so more molecules can react, faster.
- Is a catalyst used up in the reaction?
- No — it takes part but is regenerated by the end, so a small amount works over and over.
- What are everyday examples of catalysts?
- A car's catalytic converter, enzymes in digestion, and yeast in baking all act as catalysts.