The catalytic activity of platinum depends on its ability to adsorb and activate reactants. For example:
Hydrogenation Reactions: The surface states can facilitate the dissociative adsorption of hydrogen molecules, a key step in hydrogenation reactions. Oxidation Reactions: The presence of surface oxygen can change the oxidation state of platinum, thereby influencing its ability to oxidize other molecules. Electrocatalysis: In fuel cells, the surface states of platinum are crucial for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
