Definition: A catalyst is a subtance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction by reducing the activation energy, but which is left unchanged by the reaction.
Examples: A piece of platinum foil is a catalyst for the combustion of methane in air.
Catalyst Definition
Chemistry Glossary Definition of Catalyst
By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., About.com Guide
A catalyst permits a different energy pathway for a chemical reaction which has a lower activation energy. The catalyst is not consumed in the chemical reaction.
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