Question

Which is an example of autocatalysis?

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

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Oxidation of oxalic acid by $KMn{O}_4$

Permanganate in acidic solution can oxidize oxalate ions (or oxalic acid). The reaction produces $M{n}^{2+},$ which auto-catalyzes this reaction When potassium permanganate undergoes a reaction with acidified oxalate solution, the rate of the reaction is initially slow. It slowly increases in rate due to the formation of $M{n}^{2+}$ ions