`CH_(4)overset(Mo_(2)O_(3))(to)'P'` (major) Product 'P' is -

Options

A. `CH_(3)OH`
B. HCHO
C. HCOOH
D. `CH_(3)-CH_(3)`

Answer

To solve the question regarding the reaction of methane (CH₄) with molybdenum oxide (Mo₂O₃) to form the major product 'P', we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Reactants**: The reactants in this reaction are methane (CH₄) and molybdenum oxide (Mo₂O₃).

2. **Understand the Role of Mo₂O₃**: Molybdenum oxide acts as a catalyst in this reaction. Catalysts are substances that increase the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process.

3. **Reaction Conditions**: The reaction occurs under specific conditions, which include the presence of oxygen (O₂) and the application of heat and pressure.

4. **Type of Reaction**: This reaction is a catalytic oxidation, where methane is oxidized in the presence of oxygen.

5. **Identify the Products**: The oxidation of methane (CH₄) in the presence of oxygen (O₂) and the catalyst (Mo₂O₃) leads to the formation of methanol (HCHO) and water (H₂O).

6. **Write the Balanced Reaction**: The overall reaction can be represented as:
\[ CH₄ + O₂ \xrightarrow{Mo₂O₃, \text{heat, pressure}} HCHO + H₂O \]

7. **Determine the Major Product 'P'**: From the reaction, the major product 'P' formed is methanol (HCHO).

### Final Answer:
The major product 'P' is methanol (HCHO).

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