Question

The steps in a reaction mechanism are as follows. Which species is acting as a catalyst? Step 1: Ag+(aq) + Ce4+(aq) <-----&gt; Ag2+(aq) + Ce3+(aq) Step 2: Tl+(aq) + Ag2+(aq) -----> Tl2+(aq) + Ag+(aq) Step 3: Tl2+(aq) + Ce4+(aq) -----> Tl3+(aq) + Ce3+(aq)

Answer 1

Answer:

Ag⁺ acts as the catalyst.

Explanation:

Hello,

In this case, each step is reorganized:

- Step 1:

$Ag^+(aq) + Ce^{4+}(aq) \rightleftharpoons Ag^{2+}(aq) + Ce^{3+}(aq)$

- Step 2:

$Tl^+(aq) + Ag^{2+}(aq) \rightarrow Tl^{2+}(aq) + Ag^+(aq)$

- Step 3:

$Tl^{2+}(aq) + Ce^{4+}(aq) \longrightarrow Tl^{3+}(aq) + Ce^{3+}(aq)$

In such a way, Ag⁺ is converted to Ag²⁺ in the first step, but then it is regenerated to simple Ag⁺, therefore, Ag⁺ acts as the catalyst.

Best regards.