The ability of a catalyst to achieve product specificity can be attributed to several factors:
Active Site Geometry: The spatial arrangement of the active sites on the catalyst surface can favor the formation of specific products by stabilizing particular transition states or intermediates. Electronic Effects: The electronic properties of the catalyst can influence the reaction pathway, directing the formation of certain products over others. Steric Effects: The size and shape of the catalyst can hinder the formation of larger or sterically hindered products, thus favoring smaller or less complex products.
