Transition Metal Uses As Catalysts

Question 1

Which three transition metals are most commonly used as heterogeneous catalysts?

Answer 1

Iron nickel and copper

Question 2

What is a heterogeneous catalyst?

Answer 2

A heterogeneous catalyst is a catalyst that will speed up the reaction whilst being in a different state of matter than the reactants.

Question 3

Give an example of a heterogeneous catalyst in action.

Answer 3

In the Haber process where ammonia is made from nitrogen and hydrogen the gases are heated and an iron solid catalyst is added to speed up the reaction.

Question 4

Name the main uses for iron copper and nickel.

Answer 4

Iron is most likely to be used in the Haber process, copper is most likely to be used in the oxidation of alcohols & is used in the hydrogenation of vegetable oils.