A Northwestern University-led international team of scientists has achieved a groundbreaking feat by directly observing catalysis in-action at the atomic level. Through mesmerizing videos, researchers witnessed single atoms in motion during a chemical reaction that involved removing hydrogen atoms from an alcohol molecule. This real-time observation unveiled short-lived intermediate molecules and a previously undiscovered reaction pathway. The study utilized the innovative single-molecule atomic-resolution time-resolved electron microscopy (SMART-EM), enabling the researchers to witness individual molecules reacting at the atomic scale. By gaining insights into these reactions, scientists aim to enhance their understanding of catalysts' mechanisms, potentially leading to the development of more efficient and sustainable chemical processes. Northwestern's experts, including Yosi Kratish and Tobin J. Marks, emphasized the significance of this achievement in deciphering the intricate details of atomic movements during catalysis. The team's use of SMART-EM allowed for the capture of fleeting molecules that play vital roles in catalytic processes. The technique's lower electron dose minimized sample damage, enabling the creation of dynamic process videos termed 'cinematic chemistry.' This breakthrough not only sheds light on the atomic-level dynamics of catalysis but also opens new possibilities for observing chemical reactions with unprecedented detail. The study's implications extend to the broader scientific community, offering a fresh perspective on catalyst functionality and the complex transformations that occur during chemical reactions.