Contact Process

Question 1

Describe the Contact Process

Answer 1

1. Sulphur burns in air to form SO2
2. SO2 is further oxidised to SO3 in the presence of vanadium (V) oxide
3. SO3 is dissolved in concentration H2SO4 to give oleum
4. Water is added to oleum
5. Concentrated H2SO4 formed

Question 2

Ideal conditions for Contact Process

Answer 2

Temperature: 450 degrees
Pressure: 1 atmosphere
Catalyst: Vanadium (V) Oxide

Question 3

Uses of SO2

Answer 3

• manufacture of sulphuric acid
• bleaching agent in wood pulp industry
• good preservative

Question 4

Uses of sulphuric acid

Answer 4

• make detergents
• make fertilisers
• make pigments + dyes
• an electrolyte in car batteries

Question 5

Raw materials in contact process:

Answer 5

Sulphur, air, water