SO2 + O2 → 2SO3. In this reaction; the most suitable catalyst is?

A. chromium(vi)oxide
B. iron(iii)oxide
C. copper(i)oxide
D. vanadium(v)oxide

Correct Answer:

Option D = vanadium(v)oxide

Explanation

During the Contact Process for manufacturing sulfuric acid, sulfur dioxide has to be converted into sulfur trioxide, which is done by passing sulfur dioxide and oxygen over a solid vanadium(V) oxide catalyst.