Question

In Haber's process iron oxide with small amount of $K_{2}O$ and $A{l}_2{O}_3$ is used as:

• A. Catalyst
• B. Promoter
• C. Reagent
• D. Dehydrating agent

Answer 1

The correct option is A Catalyst

In Haber process $N_2\left(g\right)$ and $H_2\left(g\right)$ are reacted at a high temperature of $723K$ and $20265kPa$ pressure in presence of iron oxide mixed with small amount of ​$K_{2}O$ and $A{l}_2{O}_3$ to produce $N{H}_3\left(g\right)$. It is an exothermic process which takes place in accordance with Le Chatelier’s principle.
$N_2\left(g\right)+3H_2\left(g\right)\stackrel{\Delta }{\rightleftharpoons }2N{H}_3\left(g\right)$
The activation barrier for the dissociation of $N_2$ and $H_2$ in​ the gas phase is very high.​ Without a catalyst, the ​reaction between $N_2$ and $H_2$ occurs slowly.​ In the presence of a suitable​ catalyst such as Fe, the dissociation of $N_2$ and $H_2$ to give adsorbed atoms is facile.​