Question 1: Define a catalyst and describe its effect on a chemical reaction.

Answer: A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process; it works by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction.

Question 2: Explain how a catalyst lowers the activation energy of a reaction.

Answer: A catalyst provides an alternative pathway with a lower activation energy, making it easier for reactant molecules to convert into products.

Question 3: Which of the following is an example of a catalyst in industry? A) Iron in the Haber process B) Sulphur in the production of sulphuric acid C) Aluminium foil D) Water in hydration reactions

Answer: A) Iron in the Haber process

Question 4: Fill in the blank: Catalysts are **(consumed/not consumed)** during a reaction and can be **(reused/used up)** multiple times.

Answer: not consumed; reused

Question 5: Describe a practical example where a catalyst is used in everyday life.

Answer: An example is the use of platinum catalysts in catalytic converters in cars, where they help convert toxic gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide and nitrogen.

Question 6: What are the main variables that can affect the effectiveness of a catalyst?

Answer: Temperature, concentration of reactants, surface area of the catalyst, and presence of poisons or impurities.

Question 7: Explain why catalysts are important in industrial chemical processes.

Answer: Catalysts increase reaction rates, which can reduce energy costs, increase efficiency, and make processes more environmentally friendly by lowering waste and emissions.

Question 8: Identify the key difference between a catalyst and an inhibitor.

Answer: A catalyst speeds up a reaction without being consumed, while an inhibitor slows down or stops a reaction.

Question 9: Describe how the presence of a catalyst affects the activation energy and reaction rate, using scientific terms.

Answer: A catalyst provides an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy, which increases the number of molecules with sufficient energy to react at a given temperature, thereby increasing the reaction rate.

Question 10: Discuss the environmental and economic benefits of using catalysts in industry.

Answer: Using catalysts reduces energy consumption and raw material waste, lowering operational costs and environmental impact. It enables more sustainable manufacturing processes, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and improves product yield, leading to economic savings and environmental conservation.