Yes, platinum readily adsorbs hydrogen.
Understanding Hydrogen Adsorption on Platinum
The interaction between platinum and hydrogen is a crucial aspect of catalysis and surface chemistry. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Adsorption vs. Absorption
It is important to differentiate between adsorption and absorption. Adsorption refers to the adhesion of atoms or molecules to a surface, while absorption involves the incorporation of atoms or molecules into the bulk of a material.
How Platinum Adsorbs Hydrogen
Platinum, like palladium and nickel, has a unique ability to attract and hold hydrogen molecules on its surface. This process, known as chemisorption, involves the formation of chemical bonds between the hydrogen molecules and the platinum atoms.
- Surface Interaction: Hydrogen molecules (H₂) approach the platinum surface.
- Bond Breaking: The H-H bond within the molecule weakens and breaks, resulting in individual hydrogen atoms on the platinum surface.
- Bond Formation: These hydrogen atoms form new chemical bonds with the platinum atoms on the surface.
- No Bulk Entry: The hydrogen atoms are primarily bound to the surface and do not permeate into the bulk material to a significant degree, unlike some materials where absorption is a primary mechanism.
Key Points about Platinum and Hydrogen
- Room Temperature Interaction: Platinum readily adsorbs hydrogen at room temperature.
- Catalytic Importance: This adsorption is fundamental to catalytic reactions where platinum facilitates chemical transformations involving hydrogen.
- Surface Chemistry: Understanding this interaction is critical for studying various surface-related phenomena.
Reference Information
The provided reference states that platinum "readily adsorbs hydrogen at room temperature on their surface." This highlights the surface-level interaction as the primary mechanism for the interaction. It also emphasizes the importance of this adsorption in understanding chemical processes.
| Metal | Interaction with Hydrogen |
|---|---|
| Platinum | Readily Adsorbs |
| Palladium | Readily Adsorbs |
| Nickel | Readily Adsorbs |
Examples of Practical Applications
- Catalytic Converters: In vehicles, platinum is a key component in catalytic converters, facilitating the oxidation of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide and reducing nitrogen oxides. These reactions rely on hydrogen adsorption and bond breaking on the platinum surface.
- Fuel Cells: Platinum is used as a catalyst in fuel cells, where it facilitates the electrochemical oxidation of hydrogen and the reduction of oxygen.
Summary
In summary, platinum does not absorb hydrogen; instead, it adsorbs it on its surface. This adsorption process is essential for many chemical and industrial applications, especially in catalysis. The reference confirms this, stating that platinum "readily adsorbs hydrogen at room temperature on their surface."
