Question

the reduction catalyst in a catalytic converter helps to: a. reduce the oxides of nitrogen molecules into their base compounds. b. oxidize any unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. c. convert exhaust water to oxygen and hydrogen. d. oxidize nitrogen before releasing it into the atmosphere.

Explanation:

A catalytic converter has two types of catalysts - reduction and oxidation. The reduction catalyst specifically acts on nitrogen oxides (\(NO_x\)). In a reduction reaction, the oxidation state of nitrogen in \(NO_x\) is decreased. For example, \(2NO + 2CO \xrightarrow{reduction\ catalyst} N_2+2CO_2\). Option b is about oxidation (which is the role of the oxidation catalyst in the converter for un - burned hydrocarbons and \(CO\)). Option c is incorrect as exhaust water (\(H_2O\)) is not converted to \(O_2\) and \(H_2\) in a catalytic converter. Option d is wrong because nitrogen (\(N_2\)) is already in a relatively stable form and does not need to be oxidized before release.

Answer:

A. Reduce the oxides of nitrogen molecules into their base compounds.