Catalyst Chemistry Example 3
Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.
Example 3
easyEnzymes are biological catalysts. Does an enzyme change the of a biochemical reaction?
Solution
- 1 No. Enzymes (like all catalysts) only lower the activation energy.
- 2 The overall enthalpy change () remains the same — the enzyme only changes the path, not the starting or ending energy levels.
Answer
Catalysts affect kinetics (reaction speed) but not thermodynamics (energy change or equilibrium position).
About Catalyst
A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction by providing an alternative pathway with lower activation energy, without being permanently consumed or chemically.
Learn more about Catalyst →More Catalyst Examples
Example 1 easy
In the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, [formula] acts as a catalyst: [formula]. Explain the role
Example 2 mediumExplain the difference between a homogeneous catalyst and a heterogeneous catalyst. Give one example
Example 4 mediumA catalyst is added to a reaction and the reaction finishes faster. What changes, and what does not