Identify the catalyst in the hydration of alkenes to produce alcohols.

Options

A. HCI
B. `FeCl_(3)`
C. Pt
D. Ni

Explanation

To identify the catalyst in the hydration of alkenes to produce alcohols, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Hydration of Alkenes**:
- Hydration of alkenes refers to the addition of water (H₂O) across the double bond of the alkene to form alcohols.

2. **Role of Catalyst**:
- A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. In the case of hydration of alkenes, a catalyst is necessary to facilitate the reaction.

3. **Common Catalysts Used**:
- The hydration of alkenes typically requires an acid as a catalyst. Common acids used include sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and hydrochloric acid (HCl).

4. **Identifying the Correct Catalyst**:
- Among the options provided, hydrochloric acid (HCl) is mentioned as the correct catalyst for the hydration of alkenes to produce alcohols.

5. **Mechanism of Reaction**:
- In the presence of HCl, the alkene reacts with water. The H⁺ ion from HCl helps to form a carbocation intermediate. This carbocation is then attacked by the water molecule (acting as a nucleophile), leading to the formation of an alcohol.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the catalyst in the hydration of alkenes to produce alcohols is HCl.

### Final Answer:
The catalyst in the hydration of alkenes to produce alcohols is **HCl**.

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