Chemical doping is crucial in catalysis because it allows for the fine-tuning of catalytic properties. By introducing dopants, researchers can: 1. Enhance Catalytic Activity: Doping can increase the number of active sites or modify the electronic structure to facilitate faster reaction rates. 2. Improve Selectivity: Dopants can alter the surface chemistry of catalysts, making them more selective toward desired reaction products. 3. Increase Stability: Doped catalysts often exhibit enhanced thermal and chemical stability, extending their operational lifespan.