Question

Give 4 reasons why harsh conditions are required for catalytic hydrogenation of alkyne or alkene?

Answer 1

a. Unsaturated hydrocarbon does not react with hydrogen as energy of activation for catalytic hydrogenation is very high.

b. The bond dissociation enthalpy for alkene and alkyne is high .

c. On harsh condition or presence of a catalyst activation energy decreases .

d. These are highly stereoselective reactions