Catalyst comparisons L2C0004

A catalyst is a chemical that increases the speed of a reaction, whilst itself remaining unchanged.

1. Put the Comboplate® on the diagram and put 1 microspatula of each compound in the relevant wells (F1 - F4). Copper oxide(F1), manganese(IV) oxide (F2), zinc oxide(F3) & magnesium oxide(F4).

Tip Use E6 to store hydrogen peroxide from which to fill your syringe.

2. Put gas lid N^o1 on well F1.
3. Now fill the syringe with 1ml of hydrogen peroxide from E6 and attach to the large port of the lid.
4. Connect up the tube to the quantitative gas measuring system.
5. Gently depress the plunger and at the same time start your timer.
6. Measure the water displaced over 30 seconds and write down your result.
7. Repeat the system for F2, F3 & F4.

Create a table expressing your results and decide which compound is the best catalyst for this reaction.

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