This is when an acid or base speeds up a chemical reaction by donating or accepting protons, respectively.
Imagine acid-base catalysis like being at a party where everyone needs to have dance partners but some people are without partners. Acids and bases act like matchmakers who help pair up these individuals so everyone can keep dancing smoothly (the party being our chemical reaction).
Catalyst: A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change.
Proton Transfer: The movement of a proton from one atom to another in a chemical reaction.
Bronsted-Lowry Theory: A theory that defines acids as proton donors and bases as proton acceptors.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.