FIELD: organic synthesis catalysts. SUBSTANCE: invention provides catalytic composition for synthesis of essentially linear saturated hydrocarbons from synthesis gas, which contains 1 to 50 wt % cobalt and 0.05 to 5 wt % tantalum on inert carrier, the two metals being present in the form of either metal or oxide. EFFECT: increased selectivity regarding C2 and higher hydrocarbons. 13 cl, 5 tbl, 14 ex
