How Do Catalysts Differ in Lowering Energy Barriers?
Different types of catalysts, such as homogeneous, heterogeneous, and enzyme catalysts, lower energy barriers through various mechanisms. Homogeneous catalysts work in the same phase as the reactants, often forming intermediates with lower activation energies. Heterogeneous catalysts, typically solids, provide surfaces where reactants can adsorb, react, and desorb, thus lowering the energy barrier. Enzyme catalysts, or biological catalysts, employ highly specific active sites to stabilize transition states and lower activation energies.
