CHE505 Assignment 1
CHE505 Assignment 1
ASSIGNMENT 1
INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES
IMPORTANT NOTES:
a) This is an individual assignment.
b) Plagiarism is not allowed. PENALTY will be given to those involved.
c) Answer all questions and submit before/on the date mentioned.
d) Rename the file as the following for the submission:
NAME_ID_EH2205X_ASSGN1 (example: MUHAMMAD ARIF_2015671274_EH2205A_ASSIGN1)
e) The answers should be submitted in a pdf file.
f) Late submission will not be entertained and considered as no submission.
g) Submit this page as the cover page of your assignment.
• The process begins with the adsorption of hydrogen molecules and alkene
molecules onto the palladium catalyst surface. Hydrogen molecules dissociate into
atoms upon adsorption, which is crucial for the subsequent reaction steps. The
efficiency of this step depends on the surface area and the availability of active sites
on the catalyst.
• The adsorption of alkenes involves the interaction of the double bond with the
palladium surface, which weakens the bond and prepares it for hydrogenation.
• Once adsorbed, hydrogen atoms and alkenes form surface intermediates. The
hydrogen atoms migrate across the surface to interact with the adsorbed alkene,
leading to the formation of a partially hydrogenated intermediate.
• This step is critical as it determines the selectivity of the reaction. The orientation
and position of the alkene on the surface can influence which hydrogen atoms add
first, affecting the stereochemistry of the product.
3. Desorption of Products:
• After the hydrogenation is complete, the saturated alkane product desorbs from the
catalyst surface. The desorption step is essential for regenerating active sites on the
catalyst, allowing the cycle to continue.
• The rate of desorption can influence the overall reaction rate. If desorption is slow, it
can lead to site blockage, reducing catalyst efficiency.
The overall reaction rate is influenced by the balance between these steps. High adsorption rates
and efficient formation of intermediates can enhance the reaction rate, while slow desorption can
lead to catalyst deactivation. Selectivity is primarily determined during the intermediate formation
stage, where the orientation of the alkene affects the final product distribution. The overall reaction
rate is influenced by the balance between these steps. High adsorption rates and efficient
formation of intermediates can enhance the reaction rate, while slow desorption can lead to
catalyst deactivation. Selectivity is primarily determined during the intermediate formation stage,
where the orientation of the alkene affects the final product distribution.
Challenges and Impact on Catalytic Performance:
• Surface Poisoning: Impurities or by-products can adsorb onto the catalyst surface, blocking
active sites and reducing the catalyst's effectiveness. This can lead to decreased reaction
rates and lower catalyst lifetimes.
• Catalyst Deactivation: Over time, the catalyst may lose activity due to sintering
(agglomeration of particles) or the formation of carbonaceous deposits. Regular
regeneration or replacement of the catalyst may be necessary to maintain efficiency.