CBSE Class 12 · 2004 · Foreign · d and f Block ElementsVery Short Answer

Which property of the transition elements makes them good catalysts?

Answer: Variable oxidation states (and the ability to form complexes / provide adsorption surfaces).

Solution

Their ability to show variable oxidation states — letting them form unstable intermediates and alternative reaction paths — together with their capacity to form complexes and to adsorb reactants on their surfaces, makes transition metals and their compounds excellent catalysts (Fe in Haber's process, V

_{2}

_{5}

in the contact process, Ni in hydrogenation).

CBSE Class 12 Board · 2004 · Foreign · Subjective

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