Minerals can act as catalysts through several mechanisms:
1. Acid-Base Catalysis: Minerals like zeolites and clays have acidic or basic sites that facilitate various organic reactions. 2. Redox Catalysis: Transition metal oxides, such as iron oxides, participate in redox reactions, making them suitable for processes like oxidation and reduction. 3. Photocatalysis: Minerals like titanium dioxide can absorb light and generate electron-hole pairs, which drive photochemical reactions.
