Question

Which catalyst is used in Wacker process?

• A. \( \mathrm{CdCl_2} \)
• B. \( \mathrm{ZnCl_2} \)
• C. \( \mathrm{PbCl_2} \)
• D. \( \mathrm{PdCl_2} \)

Hint:

Wacker process: Ethene \( \rightarrow \) Acetaldehyde using \( \mathrm{PdCl_2} \) and \( \mathrm{CuCl_2} \).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The Wacker process is an industrial method used to oxidize ethylene (ethene) to acetaldehyde (ethanal) using a homogeneous catalyst system.
Step 2: Formula Application:
The reaction uses a catalytic amount of Palladium(II) chloride ($PdCl_2$) and a co-catalyst, Copper(II) chloride ($CuCl_2$), in the presence of air or oxygen.
Step 3: Explanation:
The $PdCl_2$ acts as the primary catalyst that oxidizes the alkene, while $CuCl_2$ helps in regenerating the $Pd(II)$ from the $Pd(0)$ formed during the reaction.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The catalyst used is $PdCl_2$.