Photo AI
Distinguish between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question i - 2001
Question i
Distinguish between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Distinguish between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis. - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question i - 2001
Step 1
Homogeneous: catalyst and reactants in same phase
Answer
In homogeneous catalysis, the catalyst and the reactants are in the same phase, which means they share a common state (e.g., all in gas or liquid form). There is no physical boundary separating them, leading to a uniform distribution of the catalyst within the reaction mixture.
Step 2
Heterogeneous: catalyst and reactants in different phases
Answer
In heterogeneous catalysis, the catalyst and the reactants exist in different phases. This creates a clear boundary between the catalyst and the reactants, which often leads to a more complex interaction as the reactants must diffuse to the surface of the catalyst, where the reaction occurs.