What types of reaction occur in the Haber process during the production of ammonia? (A) Redox and synthesis (B) Hydration and redox (C) Decomposition and oxidation (D) Reduction and decomposition - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 9 - 2010 - Paper 1

The Haber process is a well-known method for producing ammonia, which is crucial for fertilizers. The reaction primarily involves nitrogen gas (N₂) and hydrogen gas (H₂), which combine to form ammonia (NH₃). This process can be described in terms of two key types of reactions:

1. Synthesis Reaction: This is a type of reaction where two or more reactants combine to form a single product. In the case of the Haber process, nitrogen and hydrogen gases combine:

   $N_2(g) + 3H_2(g) \rightarrow 2NH_3(g)$

2. Redox Reaction: Although the overall reaction may not be classified strictly as a redox process, the Haber cycle involves electron transfer characteristics typical in redox reactions. Nitrogen is reduced and hydrogen is oxidized during the reaction, but primarily it is classified as a synthesis reaction.

Given these considerations, the correct answer is (A) Redox and synthesis.