A breakthrough study led by Northwestern University researchers has achieved a groundbreaking observation of catalysis in action at the atomic level. Using single-molecule atomic-resolution time-resolved electron microscopy (SMART-EM), the team captured mesmerizing videos of single atoms reacting during the removal of hydrogen atoms from an alcohol molecule. This real-time observation unveiled short-lived intermediate molecules and a previously unseen reaction pathway, providing valuable insights into catalyst mechanisms. The study, published in the journal Chem, marks a significant advancement in understanding how catalysts work and may pave the way for designing more sustainable chemical processes. The innovative SMART-EM technique, invented by the University of Tokyo's Professor Eiichi Nakamura, allowed researchers to overcome the limitations of traditional electron microscopes in imaging organic matter during catalytic reactions. By using a lower electron dose that minimizes damage to the sample, SMART-EM enables the visualization of dynamic processes in delicate organic molecules, introducing the concept of 'cinematic chemistry.' This development revolutionizes the field by offering unprecedented detail in observing chemical reactions. The Northwestern team's focus on a simple chemical reaction involving hydrogen removal from an alcohol molecule highlighted the importance of catalyst design in studying catalysis. By creating a single-site heterogeneous catalyst with a well-defined active site, the researchers could closely monitor the conversion process from ethanol to hydrogen gas. This approach allowed for a clear understanding of the catalyst's efficiency, showcasing the benefits of studying reactions at the atomic level. Overall, this study not only sheds light on previously hidden aspects of catalysis but also emphasizes the potential for more sustainable and efficient chemical processes in the future. The collaboration between Northwestern University and the University of Tokyo demonstrates the power of innovative techniques like SMART-EM in advancing scientific research.