Question

What is autocatalytic reaction?

Answer 1

In order to answer the given question, we must first have an idea about what an autocatalytic reaction is. Autocatalytic reaction can also be referred to as the self-catalyzed reaction.

Complete answer:
Let us first understand about the catalyst. Catalysts are those substances which can alter or change the rate of the reaction. Mostly the catalyst will be used to increase the speed or rate of the reaction. Let us now see what an autocatalytic reaction is. Autocatalytic reaction is said to be a type of chemical reaction in which the product itself will act as the catalyst for the same reaction and hence increase the speed of the chemical reaction. Autocatalytic reaction can also be referred to as the self-catalyzed reaction. At the initial stage the rate is found to be very slow but as the reaction proceeds and when the product is formed then the rate of the reaction is increased.
Autocatalytic reaction is expressed as $A + B \rightleftharpoons 2B$.
Here the original B which acts as the catalyst is retained.
Let us understand by taking an example:
- Decomposition of Arsine is an example of a catalyzed reaction. In this reaction the Arsenic is the catalyst.
$2As{H_3} \rightleftharpoons 2As + 3{H_2}$

Note:
We have to remember that the catalyst can have various features such as
- It will not initiate the chemical reaction.
- It will not be consumed in the chemical reaction.
- Catalyst will form an intermediate with the reactant and finally it will facilitate the production of the final reaction product.