Question

Which is an example of auto catalyst?

• A. Hydrolysis of ethyl acetate
• B. Decomposition of TNG
• C. Oxidation of oxalic acid by $KMn{O}_4$
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

All of the above

A catalyst is a substance, which increases the rate of a 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 a negative catalyst. Obviously, the catalyst accelerating the rate will be a positive catalyst.

Catalysts are generally foreign substances but sometimes one of the products formed may act as a catalyst and such a catalyst is called "auto catalyst" and the phenomenon is called autocatalysis.

The examples of autocatalysis are as follows:

Hydrolysis of ethyl acetate: In this reaction, acid forms which further catalyze a reaction.

Decomposition of TNG: In this reaction, gases form which acts as a catalyst for the reaction.

Oxidation of oxalic acid by $KMn{O}_4$: In this reaction, $M{n}^{2+}$ forms which act as a catalyst for the reaction.