Question

The catalyst used in the manufacture of sulphuric acid by contact process is ________.

• A. ${Al}_2{O}_3$
• B. $V_2{O}_5$
• C. ${Cr}_2{O}_3$
• D. $Mn{O}_2$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $V_2{O}_5$

The contact process is the current method of producing sulfuric acid in the high concentrations needed for industrial processes. Platinum used to be the catalyst for this reaction, however as it is susceptible to reacting with arsenic impurities in the sulfur feedstock,Vanadium (V) oxide $\left(V_2{O}_5\right)$ is now preferred.

$2S{O}_2\left(g\right)+O_2\left(g\right)\stackrel{V_2{O}_5}{\to }2S{O}_3$

So answer is B.