heterogeneous catalysis

Heterogeneous catalysis involves chemical reactions where reactants and catalysts exist in different phases, most commonly a solid catalyst interacting with gaseous or liquid reactants. This occurs at the interface between the phases, often on the surface of the solid catalyst.123

Key aspects of heterogeneous catalysis include:
* Surface Area: Catalysts are often prepared to maximize surface area, as reactions happen on the surface.3
* Chemisorption: Reactants chemically bond to the catalyst's surface (chemisorption) before reacting.3
* Promoters and Poisons: Substances called promoters can enhance catalyst effectiveness, while poisons can inhibit it by blocking active sites.3

Heterogeneous reactions are crucial in industry but are generally less understood than homogeneous reactions, where reactants and catalysts are in the same phase.1