When n-heptane is passed over a catalyst composed of chromium oxide () supported on alumina () at an — Hydrocarbons Chemistry Question
Question
When n-heptane is passed over a catalyst composed of chromium oxide ($Cr_2O_3$) supported on alumina ($Al_2O_3$) at $600^{\circ}C$ and 10-20 atm pressure, it undergoes dehydrogenation and cyclization. Which aromatic compound is formed as the major product?
Answer: C
💡 Solution & Explanation
This reaction is called aromatization or catalytic reforming. n-Heptane ($C_7H_{16}$) contains 7 carbon atoms. It undergoes cyclization to a 6-membered ring and subsequent loss of hydrogen ($4H_2$) to form an aromatic ring containing a methyl group, which is toluene (methylbenzene, $C_7H_8$). n-Hexane yields benzene.
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