Question:easy

Select the catalyst used in hydrogenation of ethene.

Show Hint

"Finely divided" is a crucial keyword for heterogeneous catalysts! Crushing the metal into a fine powder drastically increases the surface area, exposing more active sites and massively increasing the reaction rate.
Updated On: Jun 8, 2026
  • Fe - Cr
  • $\text{MnO}_2$
  • Ni (finely divided)
  • Co - Th alloy
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand the question.
We need the catalyst that helps add hydrogen to ethene (turning ethene into ethane).

Step 2: Recall the reaction.
Hydrogenation adds $\text{H}_2$ across the double bond: \[ \text{CH}_2\text{=CH}_2 + \text{H}_2 \xrightarrow{\text{catalyst}} \text{CH}_3\text{-CH}_3 \]
Step 3: Recall why a catalyst is needed.
Hydrogen gas is sluggish on its own, so a metal surface is used to grab and split the $\text{H}_2$ molecules so they can react.

Step 4: List the metals that do this.
Nickel, palladium and platinum are the usual hydrogenation metals. Finely divided nickel gives a large surface and works well at mild heat.

Step 5: Rule out the others.
$\text{MnO}_2$ is used to break down hydrogen peroxide, and iron is the catalyst for making ammonia, so neither fits hydrogenation of ethene.

Step 6: Pick the answer.
The catalyst is finely divided nickel, option (C).
\[ \boxed{\text{Ni (finely divided)}} \]
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