Catalytic Converters Reduce NOx via Heterogeneous Catalysis

Steps:

• NOx removal occurs in catalytic converters using a solid catalyst with gaseous exhaust.
• Catalysts lower activation energy to speed up reactions without being consumed.
• The process involves heterogeneous catalysis, as reactants (gases) differ in phase from the catalyst (solid).
• Thus, the catalyst decreases activation energy through heterogeneous means.

Why A is correct:

• Catalysts decrease activation energy per transition state theory; catalytic converters use heterogeneous catalysis with platinum/rhodium on a ceramic support.

Why the others are wrong:

• B: Homogeneous catalysis requires same-phase catalyst/reactants, but converter uses solid-gas phases.
• C: Catalysts decrease, not increase, activation energy.
• D: Combines incorrect increase in activation energy with wrong homogeneous type.

Final answer: A