Hydrogen is a versatile and reactive gas that plays a crucial role in catalysis due to its ability to donate electrons and participate in reduction reactions. It is employed for:
1. Hydrogenation: Adding hydrogen to unsaturated organic compounds, such as converting alkenes to alkanes. 2. Hydrotreating: Removing impurities like sulfur, nitrogen, and metals from hydrocarbons. 3. Hydrocracking: Breaking down complex heavy hydrocarbons into simpler, more valuable products.