NEETChemistryd and f Block Elements
What is the effect of forming bonds between reactant molecules and the surface of the catalyst?
Options
- AIt decreases the concentration of reactants
- BIt increases the activation energy
- CIt increases the concentration of reactants at the catalyst surface
- DIt reduces the catalytic activity
Correct answer
C. It increases the concentration of reactants at the catalyst surface
Step-by-step solution
Catalysts at a solid surface involve the formation of bonds between reactant molecules and atoms of the surface of the catalyst (first row transition metals utilise 3d and 4s electrons for bonding). This has the effect of increasing the concentration of the reactants at the catalyst surface and also weakening of the bonds in the reacting molecules (the activation energy is lowering)