A Northwestern University-led international team of scientists has achieved a significant milestone by directly observing catalysis at the atomic level. Using the innovative SMART-EM technology, researchers witnessed a live catalytic reaction where hydrogen atoms were removed from an alcohol molecule. This observation unveiled short-lived intermediate molecules and a previously unseen reaction pathway, providing crucial insights for designing more efficient and environmentally friendly catalysts. SMART-EM, with its ability to capture atomic-resolution time-resolved electron microscopy, enabled the researchers to visualize individual molecules reacting in real-time. This breakthrough holds the key to understanding the intricate workings of catalysts and could pave the way for the development of improved chemical processes. The study, published in the journal Chem, marks a significant advancement in the field of catalysis. Led by renowned experts including Tobin J. Marks and Yosi Kratish from Northwestern University, the research team highlighted the importance of comprehending catalyst behavior at the atomic scale to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Through SMART-EM, the team overcame the limitations of traditional electron microscopes, which often damage organic molecules during observation. By employing lower electron doses, SMART-EM minimized energy transfer and enabled the visualization of dynamic chemical processes with unprecedented detail. The significance of this research lies in its ability to transform messy heterogeneous catalysts into measurable and understandable systems. By utilizing a single-site heterogeneous catalyst with a well-defined active site, the team managed to shed light on the intricate dynamics of catalytic reactions. The use of cinematic chemistry videos through SMART-EM offers a new dimension in studying chemical reactions, opening doors to a deeper understanding of catalyst behavior and reaction mechanisms.