What is a main use of platinum group metals?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

The question asks: What is a main use of platinum group metals?

First, note that the provided data shows an answer of Autocatalysts, but the answer_options field is empty, so there are no alternate choices to compare or analyze against.

Despite the missing options, we can discuss the concept: platinum group metals (PGMs) such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium are highly effective catalysts due to their surface properties and resistance to poisoning. A primary and well-known application is in autocatalysts for automotive exhaust systems, where PGMs facilitate the redox reactions that convert harmful pollutants (CO, hydrocarbons, NOx) into less harmful emissions (CO2, H2O, N2).

Why autocatalysts are a main use:
- They enable efficient catalytic conversion at relatively low temperatures, which is essential for parking and after-start conditions.
- Their chemical stability and resistance to sulfur and other contaminants make them durable in harsh exhaust environments.
- The automotive industry consumes significant PGMs specifically for catalytic converters, making autocatalytic applications a dominant use in practice.

Other uses of PGMs exist (e.g., in electronics, chemical catalysts for various industrial processes, jewelry, and some medical applications), but autocatalysts are widely recognized as a flagship application for platinum group metals.

Since no alternative options are provided to evaluate, the explanation focuses on why autocatalysts are a main use and what makes PGMs suitable for that role, while acknowledging the limitation that we cannot compare the listed option against other distractors in this particular item.

EOSC_V 118 99C 2024W2 CYU Lesson 3

What is a main use of platinum group metals?

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