Thermodynamic stateIn thermodynamics, a thermodynamic state of a system is its condition at a specific time; that is, fully identified by values of a suitable set of parameters known as state variables, state parameters or thermodynamic variables. Once such a set of values of thermodynamic variables has been specified for a system, the values of all thermodynamic properties of the system are uniquely determined. Usually, by default, a thermodynamic state is taken to be one of thermodynamic equilibrium.
Heterogeneous catalysisHeterogeneous catalysis is catalysis where the phase of catalysts differs from that of the reactants or products. The process contrasts with homogeneous catalysis where the reactants, products and catalyst exist in the same phase. Phase distinguishes between not only solid, liquid, and gas components, but also immiscible mixtures (e.g. oil and water), or anywhere an interface is present. Heterogeneous catalysis typically involves solid phase catalysts and gas phase reactants.
Methylene (compound)Methylene (IUPAC name: Methylidene, also called carbene or methene) is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH2 (also written [CH2]). It is a colourless gas that fluoresces in the mid-infrared range, and only persists in dilution, or as an adduct. Methylene is the simplest carbene. It is usually detected only at very low temperatures, or as a short-lived intermediate in chemical reactions. The trivial name carbene is the preferred IUPAC name.