Question

Given below are two statements: 
Statement I: Nickel is being used as the catalyst for producing syn gas and edible fats. 
Statement II : Silicon forms both electron rich and electron deficient hydrides. 
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Statement I is correct but statement II is incorrect
• B. Both the statements I and II are incorrect
• C. Statement I is incorrect but statement II is correct
• D. Both the statements I and II are correct

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To address the given statements regarding the usage of nickel as a catalyst and silicon hydrides, let's analyze each one separately:

1. Statement I: Nickel is being used as the catalyst for producing syn gas and edible fats.
   • Nickel is commonly used as a catalyst in industrial processes.
   • In the production of synthesis gas (syn gas), nickel catalysts are used in reforming processes where hydrocarbons react with steam.
   • Nickel is also employed in the hydrogenation of oils to produce edible fats such as margarine. This involves converting unsaturated fats to saturated fats using hydrogen in the presence of nickel as a catalyst.
   • Therefore, Statement I is correct.
2. Statement II: Silicon forms both electron rich and electron deficient hydrides.
   • Silicon forms a limited number of hydrides known as silanes (Si_nH_2n+2). These are structurally similar to alkanes but less stable.
   • Silanes are not known to be electron-rich or electron-deficient in the way boranes exhibit electron-deficient bonding.
   • Hydrides of silicon do not exhibit unusual electron deficiency as seen in other elements, such as boron.
   • Thus, Statement II is incorrect.

Based on the analysis, the correct answer is: Statement I is correct but statement II is incorrect.