Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General)

nCO + (2n+1)H2 → CnH2n+2 + nH2O

Descripción general

The Fischer-Tropsch process converts synthesis gas (carbon monoxide and hydrogen) into hydrocarbons and water. This polymerization reaction builds carbon chains from C1 feedstock using iron or cobalt catalysts at 150-350 C. It can produce fuels from coal, natural gas, or biomass.

Participantes

Rol Sustancia Coeficiente Estado
Reactivo Carbon Monoxide CO 1 (g)
Reactivo Hydrogen H 2 (g)
Producto Water H₂O 1 (l)

Ejemplo cotidiano

South Africa's Sasol company produces a significant portion of the country's liquid fuels from coal using this technology.

Importancia industrial

La síntesis de Fischer-Tropsch es estratégicamente importante para países que carecen de petróleo pero disponen de carbón o gas. Se aplica a gran escala en Sudáfrica (Sasol) y en producción de gas a líquidos.

Propiedades

Tipo
Synthesis
Reversible
No
Energía
Exotérmico
ΔH
-165,0 kJ/mol
Catalizador
Iron or cobalt catalyst

Reacciones relacionadas

Formation of Carbon Monoxide Formation of Nitrogen Dioxide Formation of Potassium Chloride Formation of Sodium Bicarbonate Formation of Sodium Peroxide Formation of Silicon Dioxide Formation of Tungsten Carbide Formation of Copper(II) Sulfide Formation of Sulfur Dioxide Formation of Calcium Hydroxide

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General)?
The balanced equation is: nCO + (2n+1)H₂ → CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ + nH₂O.
What type of reaction is Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General)?
Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) is a synthesis reaction.
Is Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) exothermic or endothermic?
Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -165.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General)?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Iron or cobalt catalyst).