the catalyst used in the hydrogenation of oils is :

Options

A. Fe
B. Ni
C. Pt
D. `V_(2) O_(5)`

Answer

To solve the question regarding the catalyst used in the hydrogenation of oils, let's break it down step by step:

### Step 1: Understand the Process of Hydrogenation
Hydrogenation is a chemical reaction that involves the addition of hydrogen (H₂) to an unsaturated compound, typically an alkene or alkyne, to convert it into a saturated compound (alkane). This process is commonly used in the food industry to convert liquid vegetable oils into solid or semi-solid fats (like margarine or ghee).

**Hint:** Remember that hydrogenation is about adding hydrogen to unsaturated compounds.

### Step 2: Identify the Role of Catalysts
A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. In hydrogenation reactions, catalysts are essential to facilitate the addition of hydrogen to the unsaturated compounds.

**Hint:** Catalysts are not consumed in the reaction; they help speed it up.

### Step 3: Evaluate the Given Options
The options provided are:
1. Iron
2. Nickel
3. Platinum
4. Palladium oxide

Now, we need to analyze which of these is commonly used in the hydrogenation of oils.

**Hint:** Think about which metals are typically used in industrial hydrogenation processes.

### Step 4: Analyze Each Option
- **Iron:** Primarily used in the Haber process for ammonia synthesis, not for hydrogenation of oils.
- **Nickel:** Widely used as a catalyst in the hydrogenation of vegetable oils to convert them into saturated fats. This is a common industrial process.
- **Platinum:** A noble metal that can catalyze hydrogenation, but it is more expensive and less commonly used for bulk hydrogenation of oils.
- **Palladium oxide:** Used in specific reactions but not the primary catalyst for hydrogenation of oils.

**Hint:** Focus on the most common and cost-effective catalyst used in the food industry.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **Nickel**, which is the catalyst used in the hydrogenation of oils.

**Final Answer:** The catalyst used in the hydrogenation of oils is **Nickel**.