How Do Metal Catalysts Utilize Bonding and Antibonding States?
Metal catalysts often utilize their d-orbitals to interact with the orbitals of reactant molecules. For example, in heterogeneous catalysis, the surface atoms of the metal can form bonding interactions with the reactants, stabilizing the transition state and lowering the activation energy. Additionally, antibonding interactions can weaken specific bonds in the reactants, making them easier to break.