Chemistry 2002 JAMB Past Questions - Question 31: The reaction of an alkene with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst is

Correct Answer

D

Explanation

The reaction of an alkene with hydrogen in the presence of a catalyst is known as hydrogenation. Hydrogenation is a chemical reaction in which hydrogen (H2) is added to an unsaturated organic compound, such as an alkene or alkyne, to reduce or saturate the carbon-carbon double or triple bond, resulting in the formation of a saturated compound.

The general chemical equation for the hydrogenation of an alkene is:

\[ \text{Alkene} + \text{H}_2 \text{ (g)} \xrightarrow{\text{Catalyst}} \text{Alkane} \]

The catalyst used in this reaction is typically a metal catalyst, such as palladium (Pd), platinum (Pt), or nickel (Ni). The metal catalyst facilitates the addition of hydrogen atoms across the double bond, breaking the double bond and forming single bonds between the carbon atoms.

Hydrogenation is an important industrial process used in the production of various saturated compounds, including fats and oils in the food industry and in the synthesis of a wide range of organic chemicals.