Question

Differentiate between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts with one example each.

Answer 1

Aspect	Homogeneous Catalyst	Heterogeneous Catalyst
Definition	A homogeneous catalyst is one that is in the same phase as the reactants and forms a single phase.	A heterogeneous catalyst is one that exists in a different phase than the reactants, forming separate phases.
Mechanism	It acts by forming an unstable intermediate compound with reactants, lowering the activation energy.	It acts by providing a surface on which reactants adsorb and react, which accelerates the reaction.
Example	Nitric oxide gas (NO) catalyses the oxidation of sulphur dioxide to sulphur trioxide in the lead chamber process.	Finely divided solid iron catalyses the synthesis of ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen in Haber’s process.