What occurs during the process of hydrogenation?

During the process of hydrogenation, the addition of hydrogen to a compound occurs, typically to unsaturated organic molecules. This process involves the addition of hydrogen atoms across double or triple bonds in alkenes or alkynes, converting them into more saturated hydrocarbons.

Hydrogenation is commonly used in various chemical industries, particularly in the production of margarine from vegetable oils, where unsaturated fats are transformed into saturated fats. By adding hydrogen, the structure of the molecule is altered, leading to changes in physical properties such as melting point and stability.

The significance of this process lies in its ability to increase the saturation of organic compounds, making them more stable and possibly altering their reactivity. Understanding hydrogenation is essential in organic chemistry and industrial applications, highlighting its role in transforming and modifying chemical compounds for desired purposes.