Question

CO + H2 = ? when Cu is the catalyst

Answer 1

The hydrocondensation of both carbon oxides in the presence of Cu-Zn catalysts produces hydrocarbons and alcohols. The selectivity is influenced by the nature of the promoting oxides, SiO2 for example gives principally CH4 and rare earth metal oxides lead mainly to the formation of CH3OH. Chain growth is observed only in CO reactions and is favoured by high temperature.

The technique of chemical trapping has allowed the identification of formate intermediates. The results are discussed in terms of a possible mechanism for syntheses from CO and CO2.

Answer 2

The correctly balanced equation will be
2CO+2H2=2H2O+C2