What is used as a catalyst in the manufacture of sulphuric acid by the contact process?

• A) Al₂O₃
• B) K₂O
• C) V₂O₅
• D) Fe

The contact process is a key method for producing sulfuric acid, and it relies on a catalyst to enhance the reaction efficiency. In this process, the catalyst used is vanadium(V) oxide, which is represented by the chemical formula V₂O₅.

Why Vanadium(V) Oxide?

Vanadium(V) oxide is preferred because it effectively speeds up the reaction between sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and oxygen (O₂) to form sulfur trioxide (SO₃) at relatively low temperatures.

Other Options Explained

• Al₂O₃ (Aluminum oxide): Not used in this process.
• K₂O (Potassium oxide): Not a suitable catalyst for sulfuric acid production.
• Fe (Iron): While iron can act as a catalyst in some reactions, it is not used in the contact process.

In summary, the correct answer is C) V₂O₅, as it plays a crucial role in the efficient manufacture of sulfuric acid through the contact process.