This document outlines the definition and characteristics of catalysts, which are substances that alter the reaction rates of chemical reactions without changing themselves. It covers different types of catalysis, including positive, negative, homogeneous, heterogeneous, and enzyme catalysis, as well as their industrial applications like the Haber and Ostwald processes. Additionally, it explains the mechanisms involved in enzyme catalysis, including the Michaelis-Menten equation and various factors affecting reaction rates.