Catalytic conversion of isoelectronic CO and N₂ molecules in the presence of hydrogen

The review is devoted to the comparative consideration of the mechanisms of transformations of isoelectronic molecules of carbon(II) oxide and molecular nitrogen in reductive conversion processes. The similarities and differences in the activation of these molecules are demonstrated. Fundamentally and commercially relevant catalytic systems are described and parallels in their operation are shown as well. Promising trends in the search for new catalytic systems and processes are noted. Related molecules with similar reductive conversion processes are indicated.