Inorganic oxides play a crucial role in heterogeneous catalysis because they often serve as catalysts or catalyst supports. Their importance stems from several factors:
Surface Area: High surface area provides more active sites for reactions. Thermal Stability: Many inorganic oxides can withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for industrial processes. Acid-Base Properties: They can exhibit acidic, basic, or amphoteric properties, influencing the type of reactions they can catalyze. Redox Behavior: Many oxides can undergo reversible redox reactions, facilitating electron transfer in catalytic processes.
