module 3: 10.2 catalysts

Question 1

define the term catalyst

Answer 1

a substance that changes the rate of a chemical reaction without undergoing any permanent change itself in allowing a reaction to proceed via a diferent route with lower activation energy

Question 2

define the term homogeneous catalyst

Answer 2

a homogenous catalyst has the same physical state as the reactants.

Question 3

define the term heterogeneous catalyst

Answer 3

a heterogeneous catalyst has a different physical state from the reactants

Question 4

what is the economic importance and sustainability of catalysis

Answer 4

catalysts reduce the activation energy meaning, they reduce the temperature needed for the process and the energy requirements.
This means less electricity or fossil fuels is used. Making the product faster and using less energy can cut costs and increase profitability.
The modern focus on sustainability requires the industry to operate the processes with high atom economies and fewer pollutants. Using fewer fossil fuels will cut emissions of CO2, reducing global warming