Question

Which among the following chemicals is used as a catalytic promoter in Haber’s process?

• A. Ni
• B. MnO$_2$
• C. Fe
• D. Mo

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Fe is used as a catalyst in the Haber’s process, while Mo acts as a promoter.

Answer 2

Iron (Fe) is used as the primary catalyst in the Haber process, which is the industrial method for synthesizing ammonia (NH₃) from nitrogen (N₂) and hydrogen (H₂). The role of iron in the Haber process is to speed up the reaction without being consumed in the process. It provides an active surface that allows the nitrogen and hydrogen molecules to react more efficiently at relatively lower temperatures and pressures compared to what would be required without a catalyst.

On the other hand, Molybdenum (Mo) acts as a promoter in the Haber process. While molybdenum itself is not the primary catalyst, it enhances the effectiveness of iron by improving its ability to activate the nitrogen molecule, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of ammonia production. Molybdenum promotes the formation of active sites on the iron catalyst, which helps to break the strong nitrogen-nitrogen triple bond, facilitating the reaction.

In summary, iron is the main catalyst in the Haber process, facilitating the reaction between nitrogen and hydrogen to produce ammonia, while molybdenum acts as a promoter, enhancing the performance of the iron catalyst.