What type of catalyst is used in the Ostwald process?

The Ostwald process is an industrial method for producing nitric acid from ammonia and oxygen. It involves the oxidation of ammonia to nitrogen monoxide, which is then further oxidized to nitrogen dioxide and eventually converted into nitric acid. In this process, platinum serves as a catalyst.

Platinum is particularly suitable for this reaction because it has high catalytic activity and can withstand the high temperatures necessary for the oxidation of ammonia. It facilitates the reaction without being consumed in the process, allowing it to be reused multiple times. This property makes it an effective catalyst in the Ostwald process, enabling efficient production of nitric acid.

The other metals listed, such as iron, nickel, and gold, do not provide the same level of efficiency or the necessary properties for this particular reaction as platinum. Each metal has its specialized uses, but in the context of catalyzing the reactions involved in the Ostwald process, platinum is the ideal choice.