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Which gas is used in the hydrogenation of vegetable oils?
Nitrogen
Oxygen
Hydrogen
Helium
Hydrogen
Hydrogen gas is used in the hydrogenation of vegetable oils to convert liquid unsaturated fats into solid or semi-solid saturated fats, such as vanaspati ghee. This process involves the chemical addition of hydrogen across the carbon-carbon double bonds of unsaturated fatty acids.
Hydrogen gas is used in the hydrogenation of vegetable oils to convert liquid unsaturated fats into solid or semi-solid saturated fats, such as vanaspati ghee. This process involves the chemical addition of hydrogen across the carbon-carbon double bonds of unsaturated fatty acids.
Think of converting a floppy, flexible chain with loose spots into a rigid, sturdy structure by filling in the gaps with solid blocks.
H for Hydrogen, Hydrogenation adds Hydrogen.
Unsaturated┬аFat+H2тАЛNiтАЛSaturated┬аFat
During catalytic hydrogenation, hydrogen gas (H2тАЛ) is bubbled through liquid vegetable oil at elevated temperatures and pressures in the presence of a finely divided metal catalyst, typically nickel (Ni). The hydrogen molecules dissociate and add across the unsaturated C=C double bonds, transforming them into stable CтИТC single bonds of saturated fats.
Converts liquid oils into semi-solid fats like vanaspati ghee.
Requires a metal catalyst such as Nickel (Ni), Palladium (Pd), or Platinum (Pt).
Classified as an addition reaction in organic chemistry.
Increases the shelf life of food products.
Improves texture and makes handling/transportation easier.
Partial hydrogenation can lead to the formation of unhealthy trans fats.
Manufacture of vanaspati ghee
Production of margarine and commercial shortenings
Option A (Nitrogen) is an inert gas used to prevent food oxidation, not for hydrogenation.
Option B (Oxygen) causes rancidity and degradation of fats.
Option D (Helium) is an inert noble gas that does not react chemically under these conditions.
C is correct тАФ Hydrogen gas is used in the hydrogenation process to convert unsaturated liquid vegetable oils into saturated solid fats.
Always remember that hydrogenation of oils is a prime exam example of an industrial addition reaction used to saturate unsaturated hydrocarbons.