Transition Metal Catalysts in Industrial Processes

Steps:

• Recall key catalytic roles: iron for Haber-Bosch (N2 + 3H2 → 2NH3), vanadium(V) oxide for Contact process (2SO2 + O2 → 2SO3), nickel for hydrogenation of alkenes, copper for other reactions.
• Examine option A: CuO does not catalyze SO2 to SO3; that's V2O5.
• Examine option B: Iron catalyst lowers temperature for N2 + H2 reaction in ammonia synthesis.
• Examine option C: Nickel catalyzes H2 addition to unsaturated (not saturated) hydrocarbons.
• Examine option D: V2O5 catalyzes SO2 to SO3, not S to SO2.

Why B is correct:

• Iron acts as a heterogeneous catalyst in the Haber process, reducing activation energy so N2 and H2 react at lower temperatures (around 450°C) per collision theory.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: CuO catalyzes decomposition of NO2 or organic reactions, not SO2 to SO3.
• C: Saturated hydrocarbons lack double bonds, so no H2 reaction occurs.
• D: V2O5 speeds SO2 oxidation to SO3 in sulfuric acid production.

Final answer: B