Catalytic cracking is a chemical process used in the petroleum industry to convert heavy crude oil into lighter, more valuable products like gasoline and diesel. This process involves breaking down large hydrocarbon molecules into smaller ones using a catalyst, which is a substance that speeds up the reaction without being consumed. The catalyst used in catalytic cracking is often made from materials like zeolites, which help facilitate the breaking of bonds in the hydrocarbons. This method not only increases the yield of useful fuels but also improves the overall efficiency of oil refining, making it a crucial step in producing energy.