In the Haber process for the manufacture of ammonia, the catalyst commonly used is finely divided ?
Answer Details
The catalyst commonly used in the Haber process for the manufacture of ammonia is iron. The Haber process is a chemical reaction that combines nitrogen and hydrogen gases to produce ammonia gas. This reaction is slow and requires high pressure and temperature to proceed efficiently. The presence of a catalyst speeds up the reaction rate without being consumed in the process.
Iron is preferred as the catalyst in the Haber process because it is readily available, inexpensive, and effective in promoting the reaction. Additionally, iron can withstand the harsh reaction conditions of high pressure and temperature without degrading. The iron catalyst is usually in the form of small pellets or shavings, which provide a large surface area for the reactant gases to interact with the catalyst, increasing the reaction rate.