Question

What is a key difference between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts?

a) Homogeneous catalysts are in the same phase as the reactants, while heterogeneous catalysts are in a different phase.
b) Heterogeneous catalysts are in the same phase as the reactants, while homogeneous catalysts are in a different phase.
c) Both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts are always in a gaseous phase.
d) Both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts are always in a liquid phase.

Answer 1

A key difference between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts is the phase they are in. Homogeneous catalysts are in the same phase as the reactants, while heterogeneous catalysts are in a different phase. Homogeneous catalysts interact with reactants to form an intermediate substance, while heterogeneous catalysts function by providing an active surface for reactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

A key difference between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts is that homogeneous catalysts are in the same phase as the reactants, while heterogeneous catalysts are in a different phase. Homogeneous catalysts interact with a reactant to form an intermediate substance, which then decomposes or reacts with another reactant to regenerate the original catalyst and form the product.

On the other hand, heterogeneous catalysts generally function by furnishing an active surface upon which a reaction can occur and the reactions take place on the surface of the catalyst rather than within the gas or liquid phase.