The hydrogenation of unsaturated hydrocarbons is

an important industrial process. Precious metals,

such as platinum and palladium, can greatly

increase the rate of this reaction. During this

process, the gaseous reactants are pumped

across a layer of metal powder. An example of this

process is shown below.

Describe how the metal probably increases the

reaction rate, identify whether this is an example

of homogeneous or heterogeneous catalysis, and

explain how you know.

Question

Chemistry

Lauryn Dillon

6 May, 05:03

The hydrogenation of unsaturated hydrocarbons is

an important industrial process. Precious metals,

such as platinum and palladium, can greatly

increase the rate of this reaction. During this

process, the gaseous reactants are pumped

across a layer of metal powder. An example of this

process is shown below.

Describe how the metal probably increases the

reaction rate, identify whether this is an example

of homogeneous or heterogeneous catalysis, and

explain how you know.

+3

Answers (1)

Know the Answer?

Arthur Perez · Answer 1

The metal catalyst in catalytic hydrogeation process increases the rate of reaction by lowering the activation energy of the reaction, by allowing the reaction take place at a much lower temperature than it would have without the metl ctalyst.

This catalysis is regarded as heterogeneous or surface catalysis.

Explanation:

The hydrogen is first bonded to the metallic powder as the initial step of the reaction.