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Chapter 14: Problem 52

Distinguish between homogeneous catalysis and heterogeneous catalysis. Describe some important industrial processes that utilize heterogeneous catalysis.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Homogeneous catalysis refers to reactions where the reactants and the catalyst are in the same phase, while heterogeneous catalysis describes those where catalyst and reactants are in different phases. Some industrial processes that utilize heterogeneous catalysis include the Haber and Ostwald processes, the Contact process, cracking of hydrocarbons in the oil industry, and the catalytic converters found in vehicles.

Step by step solution

01

Define Homogeneous Catalysis

Homogeneous catalysis refers to the process where both the catalyst and the reactants are in the same phase. For example, they can both be in the gaseous or liquid phase. A typical example of a homogeneous catalysis process is the reaction between nitrogen and hydrogen gases in the presence of an iron catalyst to produce ammonia.
02

Define Heterogeneous Catalysis

On the other hand, heterogeneous catalysis is defined as the type of catalysis where the catalyst and reactants are in different phases, usually the catalyst is in a solid state and the reactants in gas or liquid state. An example of this is the Haber-Bosch process, where nitrogen and hydrogen gases react over a solid iron catalyst to produce ammonia.
03

List Industrial Processes Using Heterogeneous Catalysis

Several industrial processes utilize heterogeneous catalysis due to their effectiveness at high pressures and temperatures. Some of these include: 1. The Haber process for the production of ammonia from hydrogen and nitrogen. 2. The Ostwald process for the production of nitric acid from ammonia. 3. The Contact process which produces sulfuric acid from sulfur dioxide. 4. The cracking of hydrocarbons in the oil industry, and 5. The catalytic converter in cars which helps reduce the emission of harmful gases.

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