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Chapter 8: Problem 1

Which of the following are most efficient catalysts? (a) Transition metals (b) Alkali metals (c) Radioactive metals (d) Alkaline earth metals

Short Answer

Expert verified
The most efficient catalysts among the listed are the transition metals.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Catalyst Function

Catalysts work by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. It is not consumed during the reaction and does not change the final products of the reaction. It just makes the reaction faster.
02

Analyzing Metal Types

Alkali metals, found in Group 1 of the periodic table, are highly reactive, but they do not typically act as catalysts for most reactions. Alkaline earth metals (Group 2) also aren't typically used as catalysts. On the other hand, transition metals, which include elements like iron, copper, nickel, and platinum, are well-known catalysts because they often have multiple oxidation states and can form temporary bonds with reactant molecules, resulting in faster reactions. Radioactive metals do not typically serve as catalysts, being more involved in nuclear reactions than chemical ones.
03

Identifying Most Efficient Catalysts

Based on their properties, transition metals are the most efficient catalysts among the options. They can provide multiple reaction pathways due to their multiple oxidation states, and their ability to form temporary bonds with reactants can significantly reduce activation energy, making reactions proceed faster.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

The name catalyst was proposed by (a) Rutherford (b) Langmuir (c) Graham (d) Berzelius

Which of the following statements is not correct? (a) Catalyst action is specific. (b) A catalyst does not alter the equilibrium. (c) A small amount of catalyst is sufficient to catalyse a reaction. (d) The catalyst initiates the reaction

Which is not an example of homogeneous catalyst? (a) Formation of \(\mathrm{SO}_{3}\) in chamber process (b) Formation of \(\mathrm{SO}_{3}\) contact process (c) Hydrolysis of methyl acetate in the presence of an acid (d) Decomposition of \(\mathrm{KClO}_{3}\) in the presence of \(\mathrm{MnO}_{2}\)

A substance which decreases the rate of a reaction is a/an (a) inhibitor (b) poison (c) moderator (d) promoter

A catalyst is a substance which (a) increases the equilibrium concentration of the products (b) changes the equilibrium constant of the reaction (c) shortens time to reach equilibrium (d) supplies energy to the reaction
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