Final answer:
Catalysis is the process that lowers the activation energy barrier in reactions, such as the detoxification of hydrogen peroxide. It involves using catalysts like iodide ions or manganese (IV) oxide to speed up reactions without being consumed.
Step-by-step explanation:
The mechanism of lowering the activation energy barrier in reactions such as the detoxification of hydrogen peroxide is known as catalysis. A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. It does so by providing an alternative reaction mechanism with a lower activation energy, allowing the reaction to proceed faster. For example, in the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, substances like iodide ions (I˙) or manganese (IV) oxide can act as catalysts, accelerating the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen gas. This catalytic process is crucial because it helps in the protection of cells by breaking down potentially harmful hydrogen peroxide quickly and efficiently.