Catalysts, an example of experience manifest as matter

The most basic example of form exists at the atomic level, in the shape of certain molecules called catalysts (of which enzymes are an example). A catalyst is simply a molecule whose three-dimensional shape is important in speeding up chemical reactions. It works by holding together specific types of molecules within its specially shaped pocket, or indentation, long enough for them to establish a chemical bond.

During a chemical reaction, the catalyst itself remains unchanged. It simply increases the probability that other molecules, which would have formed a chemical bond anyway, do so at a much faster rate. We, as observers, notice that the rate of chemical reaction increases when the catalyst is added.
       
But the observer need not be human. Any other process which relies on a given rate of reaction (such as another chemical reaction which uses the products of the first) can be thought of as an observer as well.

One particular catalytic molecule by itself does not exert much effect, however. It may or may not facilitate the joining of reactant molecules. It only sets up an increased tendency or probability that chemical reactants will join. But if billions upon billions of catalytic molecules are placed in the right solution, they can have the powerful emergent effect of speeding up the chemical reaction a thousand-fold or more.

Comments

[aneise22]

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