Catalysts

What is a catalyst?

A substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed.

True or false: Catalysts are used up in the reaction.

False, because catalysts remain unchanged after the reaction.

Difference between homogenous and heterogeneous catalysts

Homogenous catalysts are in the same phase as reactants; heterogeneous are in different phases.

What is an enzyme?

A biological catalyst that speeds up biochemical reactions in living organisms.

Fill in the blank: Catalysts lower the ____ of a reaction.

activation energy

How do catalysts work?

By providing an alternative reaction pathway with lower activation energy.

What is an example of a catalyst in industry?

Platinum in catalytic converters for cars reduces harmful emissions.

True or false: All catalysts are enzymes.

False, because not all catalysts are biological.

Name a common catalyst used in the Haber process.

Iron is used to catalyze the synthesis of ammonia.

What does a catalyst do to reaction equilibrium?

It speeds up the rate of reaching equilibrium but does not change the position.

Fill in the blank: Catalysts can be ____ or ____.

organic; inorganic

What is a catalytic converter?

A device in vehicles that uses catalysts to convert harmful gases into less harmful emissions.

True or false: Catalysts can be reused multiple times.

True, because they are not consumed in the reaction.

Difference between activation energy and catalyst effect

Activation energy is the energy needed to start a reaction; catalysts lower this energy.

What role do catalysts play in the environment?

They help in processes like pollution reduction and recycling.