Question:

Identify the catalyst used in the contact process for manufacture of sulfuric acid.

Show Hint

The contact process oxidises SO2 to SO3 using vanadium pentoxide.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
  • Iron
  • Vanadium pentoxide
  • Nickel
  • Platinum
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The key step of the contact process is the oxidation of sulphur dioxide: \(2\text{SO}_2 + \text{O}_2 \rightleftharpoons 2\text{SO}_3\).

Step 2: Catalyst
It is carried out at about 720 K and 2 bar over \(\text{V}_2\text{O}_5\), vanadium pentoxide.

Step 3: Why the other options fail
Platinum was used earlier but is costly and easily poisoned. Iron is used in the Haber process and nickel in hydrogenation.

Final Answer:
The catalyst in the contact process is vanadium pentoxide. \[ \boxed{\text{(B) }\text{Vanadium pentoxide}} \]
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