Definitions for: Catalysis

[n] acceleration of a chemical reaction induced the presence of material that is chemically unchanged at the end of the reaction

Webster (1913) Definition: Ca*tal"y*sis, n.; pl. Catalyse.[ML., fr. Gr. ?
dissolution, fr. ? to destroy, dissolve; kata` down, wholly +
? to loose.]
1. Dissolution; degeneration; decay. [R.]

Sad catalysis and declension of piety. --Evelyn.

2. (Chem.)
(a) A process by which reaction occurs in the presence of
certain agents which were formerly believed to exert
an influence by mere contact. It is now believed that
such reactions are attended with the formation of an
intermediate compound or compounds, so that by
alternate composition and decomposition the agent is
apparenty left unchanged; as, the catalysis of making
ether from alcohol by means of sulphuric acid; or
catalysis in the action of soluble ferments (as
diastase, or ptyalin) on starch.
(b) The catalytic force.

See Also: autocatalysis, chemical action, chemical change, chemical process

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