How Do Catalysts Work in Small Molecule Activation?
Catalysts work by lowering the activation energy of a reaction, making it easier for reactants to convert into products. They achieve this through several mechanisms:
1. Coordination: A catalyst can coordinate with a small molecule, weakening its bonds and making it more reactive. 2. Electron Transfer: Some catalysts facilitate the transfer of electrons, altering the electronic structure of the small molecule and making it more susceptible to reaction. 3. Proton Transfer: Catalysts can also mediate the transfer of protons, which can activate small molecules by changing their charge and reactivity.
