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Alkenes - Hydrogenation (DP IB Chemistry: SL)

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Hydrogenation of Alkenes

  • Alkenes are very useful compounds as they can undergo many types of reactions
  • They can therefore be used as starting molecules when making new compounds
  • The reaction between an alkene and hydrogen is known as hydrogenation or reduction
  • As well as a nickel catalyst, this requires a temperature of 200 °C and a pressure of 1000 kPa

Catalytic hydrogenation converts alkenes into useful alkanes

  • One important application of this reaction is in the production of margarine from vegetable oils
  • Vegetable oils are unsaturated and may be hydrogenated to make margarine, which has a higher melting point due to stronger London Dispersion Forces
  • By controlling the conditions it is possible to restrict how many of the C=C bonds are broken and produce partially hydrogenated vegetable oils which have which have the desired properties and textures for margarine manufacture

 

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Stewart

Author: Stewart

Expertise: Chemistry Lead

Stewart has been an enthusiastic GCSE, IGCSE, A Level and IB teacher for more than 30 years in the UK as well as overseas, and has also been an examiner for IB and A Level. As a long-standing Head of Science, Stewart brings a wealth of experience to creating Exam Questions and revision materials for Save My Exams. Stewart specialises in Chemistry, but has also taught Physics and Environmental Systems and Societies.