22
A C AC
+ =
(
)
transient product
AC B AB C
+ =
+
Where A and B are reactants, C is a catalyst, AB is a product, and AC is a transient
product.
Catalysis reactions could be homogeneous (catalysts and reactants are in the
same phase) or heterogeneous (catalysts and reactants are in different phases).
Environmental professionals usually use heterogeneous catalysis for air/water pollution control.
Our health is controlled by enzymes produced within our body, which acts as a
catalyst to an array of biochemical reactions that has direct relation with outside
environment.
1.4.1 Chemical Kinetics
Chemical kinetics is the study of reaction rates (the changes in concentrations of
reactants as well as products with time). Exposure to toxic substances of the environment has direct relation to the chemical kinetics and metabolism within the
human body.
Fig. 1.14 The shiny
greenish surface of the
statue is formed by
corrosion of the copper of
the statue, which forms a
thin layer of an insoluble
compound that contains
copper, sulfate, and
hydroxide ions
1 Fundamentals of Chemistry for Environmental and Medical Professionals