Sulphuric acid is used in the preparation of which of the following? MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Explanation:
Catalysts provide an alternative pathway with lower activation energy, increasing reaction rate without being consumed. They do not affect equilibrium constant or thermodynamic parameters (ΔH, ΔS). They can be solid (heterogeneous), liquid, or gas. Enzymes are liquid-phase catalysts. A catalyst does not change the position of equilibrium, only speeds up attainment.

Explanation:
Sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄) is historically called oil of vitriol because it was prepared by distilling green vitriol (ferrous sulfate heptahydrate). It is a dense, oily liquid. Nitric acid is aqua fortis, hydrochloric acid was called muriatic acid or spirit of salt. Sulphuric acid is the king of chemicals due to its widespread use in industries like fertilizer, petroleum refining, and chemical synthesis.

Explanation:
Acidified copper sulfate (CuSO₄) solution is the electrolyte. The iron spoon is the cathode, and a pure copper plate is the anode. Cu²⁺ ions are reduced at the cathode and deposited on the spoon. Fe from spoon does not go into solution because it is cathode.