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The diagram shows a catalytic converter used in car exhaust systems - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2012 - Paper 1
Question 3
The diagram shows a catalytic converter used in car exhaust systems. Gases from the car engine pass into the catalytic converter. In the catalytic converter, carbon ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows a catalytic converter used in car exhaust systems - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 3 - 2012 - Paper 1
Step 1
What type of reaction occurs in the catalytic converter?
Answer
The reaction that occurs in the catalytic converter is an oxidation reaction, specifically converting carbon monoxide and unburnt hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water vapour. Therefore, the correct answer is C: oxidation.
Step 2
Explain why the catalyst is spread onto the honeycomb structure rather than used as large pieces.
Answer
The catalyst is spread onto the honeycomb structure to increase the surface area available for the reactions to occur. A greater surface area allows for more gas molecules to interact with the catalyst at the same time, facilitating faster reactions. This design optimizes the efficiency of the catalytic converter, ensuring that emissions are reduced quickly and effectively.