Question

Identify each of the following catalysts as homogeneous or heterogeneous. the addition of a strip of solid platinum metal to an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide increases the reaction rate of the decomposition reaction: 2 upper h subscript 2 upper o subscript 2 (a q) right arrow with upper p t (s) above it, upper 2 h subscript 2 upper o (l) plus upper o subscript 2 (g).

Answer 1

The addition of solid platinum metal to an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide is an example of a heterogeneous catalyst because the catalyst and reactants are in different phases.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process described involves adding solid platinum metal to an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide. This type of catalyst is known as a heterogeneous catalyst because the catalyst (platinum) is in a different phase (solid) than the reactants (aqueous solution).

Therefore, the solid platinum acts as a surface on which the decomposition reaction of hydrogen peroxide can take place more efficiently, by lowering the activation energy and providing an alternative reaction pathway.