Answer:
NO is the catalyst; it provides a reaction pathway with a lower activation energy
Explanation:
1. Identify the catalyst
A catalyst is a species that is present at the beginning of a reaction and reappears at the end.
It does not appear in the overall equation.
Let's apply these concepts to your mechanism:
First: 2NO(g) + O₂(g) ⟶ 2NO₂(g)
Second: 2NO₂(g) +2SO₂(g) ⟶ 2NO(g) + 2SO₃(g)
Overall: O₂(g) + 2SO₂ ⟶ 2O₂
We see that NO is present at the beginning of the first step. It reacts and then re-forms in the second step. It does not appear in the final equation.
NO is the catalyst.
2. Explain the action of the catalyst
A catalyst acts by providing an alternate pathway with a lower activation energy.
The direct reaction of SO₂ with oxygen to form SO₃ has a high activation energy.
NO reacts with the oxygen to form an intermediate (NO₂) that then reacts with the SO₂ to form SO₃. Both steps have lower activation energies, so the reaction is faster.
Answer:
NO is the catalyst. NO is the catalyst because it increases the rate of the reaction but is not consumed during the reaction. NO increases the rate of the reaction by lowering the activation energy. The reaction of NO with O2 provides an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy.
Explanation: edge 2020
