Question

What is X in the following reaction?
$CO + 2H_2 \xrightarrow{X} CH_3OH$

• A. 623 K / 300 atm
• B. KMnO4/H
• C. (C) Zn /
• D. ZnO - Cr2O3, 200 – 300 atm, 573 – 673 K

Hint:

The production of methanol is an industrial catalytic hydrogenation process requiring high pressure and temperature.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Industrial Synthesis
The reaction represents the industrial production of methanol from CO and H₂.
It is performed over ZnO-Cr₂O₃ catalyst at high temperature and pressure.
Final Answer: ZnO-Cr₂O₃ is used as the catalyst under specified conditions.

Answer 2

The catalyst and conditions (X) for the reaction \( CO + 2H_2 \rightarrow CH_3OH \) are ZnO - Cr₂O₃, 200 – 300 atm pressure, and 573 – 673 K temperature.

This reaction represents the industrial synthesis of methanol from carbon monoxide and hydrogen, known as the catalytic hydrogenation of carbon monoxide.

Zinc oxide (ZnO) and chromium oxide (Cr₂O₃) act as catalysts to increase the rate of reaction without being consumed.

The process is carried out under high pressure (200 – 300 atmospheres) to favor the formation of methanol and at elevated temperatures (573 – 673 K) to provide sufficient energy for the reaction.

These specific catalysts and conditions optimize yield and selectivity towards methanol production, making the process efficient and economically viable.