Catalysts are substances that increase the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. They work by providing an alternative pathway for the reaction to occur, lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to take place. Catalysts play a crucial role in various industrial processes, such as petroleum refining, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and environmental remediation. Researchers in the field of catalysis study the design, optimization, and application of catalysts to improve reaction efficiency, selectivity, and sustainability. This research area encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including chemistry, materials science, engineering, and computational modeling. By developing new catalysts and improving existing ones, researchers aim to address pressing societal challenges, such as energy production, pollution control, and sustainable development.