Question

A method for culturing anaerobes is the GasPak System, which uses hydrogen and a ___________ catalyst to remove O\(_2\).

• A. Rubidium
• B. Lead
• C. Iridium
• D. Palladium

Hint:

For anaerobic culture methods, associate the GasPak system with its two key components: a hydrogen-generating sachet and a \textbf{palladium} catalyst. Palladium is a well-known catalyst for hydrogenation reactions, which is essentially what happens when H\(_2\) removes O\(_2\).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Culturing obligate anaerobes requires an oxygen-free atmosphere. The GasPak system is a common laboratory method used to create this anaerobic environment within a sealed container. It relies on a chemical reaction to remove oxygen.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:


The GasPak system uses a disposable gas-generating envelope or sachet. When water is added, the sachet releases hydrogen (H\(_2\)) and carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)).

The hydrogen gas then reacts with the free oxygen (O\(_2\)) present inside the sealed jar.

This reaction (2H\(_2\) + O\(_2\) \(\rightarrow\) 2H\(_2\)O) does not occur spontaneously at room temperature. It requires a catalyst to proceed.

The catalyst is contained in a wire mesh basket, usually attached to the lid of the jar. This catalyst consists of palladium pellets.

The palladium catalyzes the chemical combination of hydrogen and oxygen, forming water and effectively removing all the free oxygen from the jar's atmosphere, creating anaerobic conditions.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The catalyst used in the GasPak system to facilitate the removal of oxygen is Palladium.