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Heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis A catalyst is something added to a reaction that increases its rate, but does not itself change in concentration. However, it is not true to say a catalyst remains unchanged. Catalysts work by providing a different reaction pathway for the reaction. A reactant will combine weakly with the catalyst to form an activated complex. This activated complex will undergo further reaction to form the products, releasing the catalyst for reuse. The rate of reaction increases because the catalysed reaction pathway has a lower activation energy than that of the uncatalysed reaction. There are two forms of catalysis, homogeneous and heterogeneous. Homogeneous catalysis is where the catalyst and reactants are present in the same phase, often in aqueous solution. Heterogeneous catalysis is where the catalyst is present in a different phase to the reactants, for example gaseous reactants with a solid catalyst. Many industrially important reactions...

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