Question

The major products obtained when a mixture of cyclohexane and cyclopentane is heated to ${300}^o$C in the presence of $Pt$ are:

• A. benzene and cyclopentane
• B. benzene and n-pentane
• C. cyclohexadiene and cyclopentadiene
• D. cyclohexane and cyclopentene

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

benzene and cyclopentane

The major products obtained when a mixture of cyclohexane and cyclopentane is heated to ${300}^o$C in the presence of $Pt$ are benzene and cyclopentane. Cyclohexane loses 3 molecules of hydrogen to form benzene. Cyclopentane remains as it is. The process is known as catalytic reforming or hydroforming. Other catalysts that can be used are oxides of chromium, vanadium or molybdenum deposited on alumina.