Question

Name the functional group of organic compounds that can be hydrogenated. With the help of suitable example explain the process of hydrogenation mentioning the conditions of the reaction and any one change in physical property with the formation of the product. Name any one natural source of organic compounds that are hydrogenated.

Answer 1

Double bond = Triple bond ≡ are functional groups (reactive part of compounds) which can be hydrogenated.

When unsaturated hydrocarbons are heated with hydrogen in the presence of nickel as catalyst, saturated hydrocarbons are formed. If the starting unsaturated hydrocarbons are liquids, they will change into solids. Vegetable oils are hydrogenated to form vegetable ghee. Plants are natural sources of vegetable oils which can be hydrogenated.