How do solvent properties influence catalyst performance?
Solvents can significantly influence catalyst performance by affecting the catalyst's stability, activity, and selectivity. For instance, solvents with high dielectric constants can stabilize ionic intermediates and transition states, leading to higher reaction rates. Additionally, solvents can impact the catalyst's solubility and dispersion, which are crucial for achieving high catalytic activity. In heterogeneous catalysis, the choice of solvent can affect the wetting properties of the catalyst surface, thereby influencing the adsorption and desorption of reactants and products.
