Question

Why is a catalyst, in general, used in the form of finely divided powder?

Answer 1

1. Finely divided catalysts provide a much larger surface area than coarse particles, increasing the available active sites for the reactants to adsorb on.
2. Increased surface area leads to greater contact between catalyst and reactant molecules, enhancing the rate of reaction.
3. More reactant molecules get adsorbed simultaneously, facilitating easier breakdown and combination to form products.

Thus, catalysts in finely divided powder form are more efficient and effective in accelerating heterogeneous reactions.