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: Understand the Wacker process.
The Wacker process is an industrial method used for the oxidation of ethene to acetaldehyde. It involves the use of a palladium-based catalyst in aqueous medium.
Step 2: Identify the catalyst.
The main catalyst used in this process is palladium(II) chloride, \( \mathrm{PdCl_2} \), along with copper chloride as a co-catalyst.
Step 3: Analyze options.

• (A) \( \mathrm{CdCl_2} \): Not used in Wacker process.
• (B) \( \mathrm{ZnCl_2} \): Not used.
• (C) \( \mathrm{PbCl_2} \): Not used.
• (D) \( \mathrm{PdCl_2} \): Correct catalyst.

Step 4: Conclusion.
Hence, the catalyst used in the Wacker process is \( \mathrm{PdCl_2} \).
Final Answer:\( \mathrm{PdCl_2} \).