Several factors determine the activity of a catalyst. These include:
Surface area: A higher surface area provides more active sites for the reaction, increasing the catalyst's activity. Active site availability: The number and nature of active sites on the catalyst surface play a crucial role in determining its activity. Temperature: Reaction temperature can enhance or reduce the activity of a catalyst. Optimal temperatures are often necessary to maximize activity. Pressure: For gas-phase reactions, pressure can influence the reaction rate and, consequently, the catalyst's activity. Poisoning: The presence of impurities or poisons can deactivate the catalyst, reducing its activity.