acid catalysis

Acid catalysis is a process where acids (substances like hydrochloric acid) help speed up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. The acid does this by donating protons (H+ ions) to the molecules involved, making them more reactive and easier to transform into products. This often lowers the energy barrier required for the reaction to occur, increasing the reaction rate. Acid catalysis is common in many chemical processes, including digestion of food, industrial manufacturing, and creating pharmaceuticals, by making reactions more efficient and selective under milder conditions.