Microenvironments can affect catalysis in several ways:
- Substrate Binding and Orientation: The microenvironment can position substrates in the optimal orientation for reaction, reducing activation energy and increasing reaction rates. - Electronic Effects: Local electronic properties can stabilize reaction intermediates or transition states, influencing the reaction pathway and product distribution. - Steric Effects: Physical constraints within the microenvironment can prevent unwanted side reactions, enhancing selectivity. - Solvent Effects: The local solvent environment can alter the solubility and mobility of reactants and products, impacting reaction kinetics.
