Clean speed ahead with catalysts
Glossary
ester. An organic compound formed when an acid (often a carboxylic acid) and an alcohol react, releasing water. They have low melting points and often have a pleasant smell.
hydration. A chemical reaction involving the addition of water to a compound.
metathesis. A chemical reaction between two compounds in which parts of each are interchanged to form two new compounds (AB+CD→AD+CB). In organic chemistry metathesis can involve the breaking and making of double bonds between carbon atoms in such a way that groups from two molecules can change place. A catalyst is used to break the double bonds.
oxidation. Any chemical reaction in which a material increases in oxidation number such as when a substance combines with oxygen. A reaction involving a loss of electrons.
polymer. Large molecules consisting of repeating units connected by chemical bonds. Polymers can be both natural (proteins, cellulose) and synthetic (nylon).
proton. A particle with positive electric charge equal but with the opposite sign to an electron. Protons are present in the nucleus of all atoms. The proton is the same as a hydrogen ion or the nucleus of a hydrogen atom.
reduction. A reaction in which an atom gains electrons. This may involve the removal of oxygen or the addition of hydrogen.
solvent. A substance (usually a liquid) that dissolves other substances (solutes) in it.
volatile. A substance that easily forms a vapour, evaporating at normal temperatures and pressures.
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Posted November 2008.