Types of Chemical Reactions II

Topic Content:

6. Catalytic Reaction:

A catalyst is a substance which alters the rate of a chemical reaction but remains chemically and quantitatively unchanged at the end of the reaction.

Characteristics of a Catalyst:

i. A Catalyst alters the rate of a chemical reaction.

ii. A Catalyst remains unchanged at the end of a reaction.

iii. A Catalyst is specific in action i.e. a substance that catalyses one reaction may not catalyse another.

iv. A Catalyst cannot start a reaction.

v. A Catalyst has no effect on the equilibrium of a reversible reaction.

vi. A catalyst does not affect the type of products formed in a reaction.

vii. The effect of a solid Catalyst is increased by increasing its surface area. Increasing surface area leads to an increased number of catalytic sites available for reaction, thereby increasing catalyst productivity.

viii. A catalyst will affect the rate of