Catalyst PND
Catalyst PND
Aim: To determine which of the three substances X, Y, and Z is the most effective catalyst in
the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide.
Apparatus/Materials:
3 test tubes
Test tube rack
Measuring cylinder (100 mL)
Stopwatch
Delivery tube and water trough
Hydrogen peroxide solution (3%)
Substances X, Y, Z (same mass for each)
Beaker
Spatula
Safety goggles
Lab coat
Method:
Variables:
Graphs: Plot time on the x-axis and volume of oxygen on the y-axis for each catalyst.
Calculations:
Inferences: The catalyst that produces the most oxygen gas in the shortest time is the most
efficient.
This reaction is exothermic and can be accelerated using different catalysts such as
manganese dioxide (MnO2), potassium iodide (KI), or iron (III) chloride (FeCl3), which may
represent substances X, Y, or Z. Each catalyst facilitates the reaction via a different
mechanism. For instance:
In the presence of MnO2: H2O2 (aq) → H2O (l) + ½O2 (g) (repeated rapidly,
catalysed by MnO2)
With potassium iodide, a redox reaction may occur: 2H2O2 (aq) + 2I⁻ (aq) + 2H⁺
(aq) → I2 (aq) + 2H2O (l) + O2 (g)
Catalysis by Fe³⁺ may involve Fenton-like chemistry: Fe³⁺ + H2O2 → Fe²⁺ + HO2•
+ H⁺ Fe²⁺ + H2O2 → Fe³⁺ + OH⁻ + OH•
These catalytic pathways enhance the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and
water. The efficiency of a catalyst depends not only on the speed of gas evolution but also on
the stability and recyclability of the catalyst.
A comparison of the oxygen produced over time for each catalyst will reveal which is the
most effective. The steepest slope in a time vs. volume graph indicates the fastest reaction
rate, suggesting the most active catalyst.
Limitations/Assumptions:
It is assumed that the mass and surface area of each catalyst are equal.
Reaction conditions like temperature are assumed to be constant.
Limitation: minor gas leaks in the delivery setup could affect measurement accuracy.
Assumes that each catalyst only affects the rate and not the amount of product
formed.
Precautions:
Wear safety goggles and a lab coat to avoid contact with hydrogen peroxide.
Handle all chemicals with care.
Ensure the delivery system is airtight to avoid gas loss.
Start timing immediately upon adding the catalyst.
Sources of Error: