Metal ions catalyze reactions through several mechanisms:
Covalent Bond Formation: Metal ions can form temporary covalent bonds with substrates, facilitating the reaction. Electrostatic Stabilization: Metal ions can stabilize negative charges on reaction intermediates, lowering the activation energy. Oxidation-Reduction Reactions: Metal ions can change their oxidation states, facilitating redox reactions. Hydrolysis: Metal ions can coordinate with water molecules, making them more nucleophilic and aiding in hydrolysis reactions.
