Question

Which one of the following is an example of homogeneous catalysis?
A.Haber’s process of synthesis of ammonia.
B.Catalytic conversion of $S{{O}_{2}}$ to $S{{O}_{3}}$ in the contact process.
C.Catalytic hydrogenation of oils.
D.Acid hydrolysis of methyl acetate.

Answer 1

We know that the homogeneous catalysis is based on the intermediate compound formation theory. The catalyst enters into a chemical combination of one or more of the reactants forming an intermediate compound which then decomposes or combines with one of the reactants to give the product.

Complete answer:
As we know that the chemical reaction reactants and catalyst are within the same phase that’s liquid or gaseous phase, then the catalyst may be a homogeneous catalyst. If the reactants and catalyst are in different phases, then the catalyst may be a heterogeneous catalyst. The opposite of homogeneous equilibrium is heterogeneous equilibrium.
Catalysts can’t be easily separated from the products of the reaction. The rate of reaction independent of the surface area of the catalyst. The homogeneous equilibrium is the homogeneous mixture of reactants and products in one phase. One phase means that the physical state of the reactants and products is the same. We are given four reactions. Only acid hydrolysis of methyl acetate can be catalyzed since both reactants and catalyst are in same phase and with the help acid (dilute) the reaction is given out by;$C{{H}_{3}}COO{{H}_{\left( l \right)}}+{{H}_{3}}{{O}^{+}}_{\left( l \right)}\rightleftharpoons C{{H}_{3}}O{{H}_{\left( l \right)}}+C{{H}_{3}}COO{{H}_{\left( l \right)}}$

Therefore, the correct answer is option D.

Note:
Remember that the reactions which involve homogeneous catalysts are faster than the one involving heterogeneous catalysts. Homogeneous catalyst is employed in hydrolysis of sugar and esters.