What is the Difference Between Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Catalysis in Rate Laws?
In homogeneous catalysis, the catalyst is in the same phase as the reactants, leading to a uniform reaction environment. The rate law for homogeneous catalysis often includes terms for both the reactants and the catalyst. In contrast, heterogeneous catalysis involves catalysts in a different phase than the reactants, typically solids interacting with gaseous or liquid reactants. The rate laws in heterogeneous catalysis often depend on surface phenomena, such as adsorption and desorption, which can complicate the rate expression.
