The energy required to activate the chemical reaction can be applied through heat. The desired temperature range is achieved by heating or cooling. In this temperature range, the reaction conditions are optimal and undesired side reactions are avoided.
Many reactions are too slow for technical applications at ambient temperature because the required activation energy is very high. Catalysts lower the required activation energy and accelerate the chemical reaction. The reaction is activated by atoms or molecules absorbing optical radiation. The mostly organic substances thus achieve a higher energy level and are activated.
Diffusion is the microscopic mass transport of particles such as atoms, molecules and ions due to differences in concentrations.
