Question

When $KCl{O}_3$ is heated, it decomposes into $KCl$ and $O_2$. If some $Mn{O}_2$ is added, the reaction goes much faster because :

• A. $Mn{O}_2$ decomposes to give $O_2$
• B. $Mn{O}_2$ provides heat by reacting
• C. Better contact is provided by $Mn{O}_2$
• D. $Mn{O}_2$ acts as a catalyst.

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

$Mn{O}_2$ acts as a catalyst.

Thermal decomposition of $KCl{O}_3$ is found to be accelerated by the presence of $Mn{O}_2$. Here, $Mn{O}_2$ (foreign substance) act as a catalyst $2KCl{O}_3+\left[Mn{O}_2\right]⟶2KCl+3O_2\uparrow +\left[Mn{O}_2\right]$

A catalyst is a substance, which increases the rate of reaction without itself being consumed at the end of the reaction, and the phenomenon is called catalysis. There are some catalysts which decrease the rate of reaction and such catalysts are called negative catalyst. Obviously, the catalyst accelerating the rate will be positive catalyst. However, the term positive is seldom used and catalyst itself implies positive catalyst. Catalysts are generally foreign substances but sometimes one of the product formed may act as a catalyst and such a catalyst is called "auto catalyst" and the phenomenon is called auto catalysis.