📚 Topic Summary
Catalyst activity and selectivity are influenced by several factors. Activity refers to how quickly a catalyst can speed up a reaction. Selectivity is about how well a catalyst directs a reaction towards a specific product, minimizing unwanted byproducts. These are affected by catalyst composition, surface area, temperature, pressure, and the presence of promoters or inhibitors.
🧪 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Catalyst Activity |
A. The ability of a catalyst to direct a reaction towards a specific product. |
| 2. Catalyst Selectivity |
B. Substances that enhance the performance of a catalyst. |
| 3. Surface Area |
C. The rate at which a catalyst speeds up a chemical reaction. |
| 4. Promoters |
D. Substances that reduce or inhibit the activity of a catalyst. |
| 5. Inhibitors |
E. The total area of a catalyst exposed for reaction. |
(Answers: 1-C, 2-A, 3-E, 4-B, 5-D)
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph with the correct words:
The __________ of a catalyst is crucial for its performance. A higher __________ generally leads to increased activity. The __________ at which the reaction takes place also plays a significant role. __________ can either enhance or diminish the catalyst's effectiveness, affecting both activity and selectivity. Finally, the __________ of the catalyst material determines its overall efficiency.
(Answers: [surface area], [surface area], [temperature], [promoters/inhibitors], [composition])
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain how the poisoning of a catalyst affects its activity and selectivity. Provide a real-world example.