Final answer:
Tetrachloroethene can undergo a reaction with hydrogen called hydrogenation. This reaction is important in society as it is used in the production of chemicals, but tetrachloroethene is also dangerous due to its potential carcinogenic and toxic properties.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tetrachloroethene can undergo a reaction with hydrogen called hydrogenation. In this reaction, hydrogen adds across the multiple bonds in tetrachloroethene, resulting in the formation of a new compound. The reaction is typically carried out under high pressure and with the use of a platinum or palladium catalyst.
This reaction is important in society because it is widely used in the industrial production of chemicals. For example, tetrachloroethene can be hydrogenated to produce trichloroethene, which is used as a solvent and in the production of plastics and textiles.
However, tetrachloroethene is also dangerous. It is classified as a possible human carcinogen and has been linked to liver damage. Additionally, it can react with water at high temperatures to produce phosgene, a highly toxic gas.