Question

When a mixture of gases X and Y is compressed to 300 atm pressure and then passed over a catalyst consisting

of a mixture of zinc oxide and chromium oxide (heated to a temperature of 300°C), then an organic compound

Z having the molecular formula CH4O is formed. X is a highly poisonous gas which is formed in appreciable

amounts when a fuel burns in a limited supply of air ; Y is a gas which can be made by the action of a dilute

acid on an active metal ; and Z is a liquid organic compound which can react with sodium metal to produce

hydrogen gas.

(a) What are X, Y and Z ?

(b) Write a balanced chemical equation of the reaction which takes place when X and Y combine to form Z.

Indicate the conditions under which the reaction occurs​

Answer 1

Answer:

(a) X is carbon monoxide gas (CO); Y is hydrogen gas (H2) ; Z is methanol (or Methyl alcohol) (CH3OH)

  (CH40 = CH3OH)

(b) Formation of Z:

 

The conditions for this reaction to take place are: a pressure of 300 atmospheres (written as 300 atm), a temperature of 300oC, and a catalyst which is a mixture of zinc oxide and chromium oxide (ZnO + CrO3