Question

What is a catalytic promoter?

Answer 1

1. A catalytic promoter is a substance which increases the catalytic efficiency of any reaction.
2. These are also known as activators.
3. Activators are added in small amounts to increase the catalytic activity.
4. Example of catalytic promoter - In Haber's process, during the synthesis of Ammonia$\left({\mathrm{NH}}_3\right)$, some traces of Molybdenum$\left(\mathrm{Mb}\right)$ are used as a promoter with fine powdered Iron $\left(\mathrm{Fe}\right)$ which acts as a catalyst in this reaction.
   ${\mathrm{N}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)+3{\mathrm{H}}_2\left(\mathrm{g}\right)\stackrel{\mathrm{Fe}/\mathrm{Mo}}{\to }2{\mathrm{NH}}_3\left(\mathrm{g}\right)$