Heterogeneous catalysis is a type of catalysis where the catalyst is in a different phase from the reactants. This means that the catalyst is typically a solid while the reactants are gases or liquids. Heterogeneous catalysis is widely used in industrial processes for the production of chemicals, fuels, and materials. This area of research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of catalytic reactions on solid surfaces, designing more efficient catalysts, and developing new catalytic processes. Researchers in this field study the interactions between the catalyst and reactants, the structure of the catalyst surface, and the kinetics of the catalytic reactions. By investigating these factors, scientists aim to improve the performance and selectivity of heterogeneous catalysts for a wide range of industrial applications.