Statements on Catalytic Properties of First Row Transition Metals
Given below are two statements for catalytic properties of transition metals.
Statement I : First row transition metals which act as catalyst utilise their electrons only for formation of bonds between reactant molecules and atoms on the surface of catalyst.
Statement II : There is increase in the concentration of reactants on the surface of catalyst which strengthens the bonds in reacting molecules.
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below :
Options
Both Statement I and Statement II are correct
Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
Topics & Concepts
Step-by-Step Solution
To determine the correctness of Statements I and II, we evaluate them based on the concepts of transition metal chemistry and heterogeneous catalysis:
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Analysis of Statement I:
- According to the principles of transition metal chemistry, first-row transition metals use both their and electrons to form temporary bonds with reactant molecules at active surface sites during adsorption.
- Since Statement I claims that these metals utilize their electrons only, it is incorrect.
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Analysis of Statement II:
- In heterogeneous catalysis (adsorption theory), the adsorption of reactant molecules onto the catalyst surface increases their concentration locally and weakens the chemical bonds within the reacting molecules. This weakening lowers the activation energy required for the reaction to proceed.
- Since Statement II claims that the bonds in the reacting molecules are strengthened, it is incorrect.
Therefore, both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect.
Correct Option: B (Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect)