Industrial catalysis (hydrogenation): Which metal is commonly used as a catalyst in the hydrogenation of oils to fats? Identify the standard heterogeneous catalyst employed in edible oil hydrogenation. Choose the correct option.

Concept/ApproachFinely divided nickel (Ni) is the classic, economical hydrogenation catalyst for converting unsaturated oils to fats. Although Pt can catalyze hydrogenation, industrial vanaspati processes rely on Ni.

Final AnswerNi