Model catalysts: reductionism for understanding

A model heterogeneous catalyst is synthesized for the purpose of understanding how it works. The model is inspired by a real catalyst. The latter is made simpler with a known structure and texture, with identifiable and countable sites. The goal is to approach the ideal molecular catalyst with identical and non-interacting active sites, i.e., a single site catalyst. Five examples of model catalysts are discussed with the understanding gained from their study.