Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Catalytic Hydrogenation
Catalytic hydrogenation is a chemical reaction that involves the addition of hydrogen (H2) to unsaturated organic compounds, typically in the presence of a catalyst. In this case, the Rhodium (Rh) catalyst facilitates the reaction, allowing for the conversion of double bonds in o-xylene to single bonds, resulting in the formation of saturated hydrocarbons.
Reaction Conditions
The reaction conditions, including pressure and temperature, significantly influence the outcome of catalytic reactions. Here, the high pressure (1000 psi) and elevated temperature (100 °C) promote the hydrogenation process, enhancing the reactivity of o-xylene and favoring the formation of saturated products over side reactions.
Product Prediction
Predicting the major products of a reaction involves understanding the structure of the starting material and the nature of the reaction conditions. In the case of o-xylene, the hydrogenation will likely lead to the formation of 1,2-dimethylcyclohexane, as the reaction saturates the aromatic ring, converting it into a cycloalkane structure.