Radiation can influence catalytic reactions in several ways: 1. Activation of Catalysts: Radiation can activate a catalyst by exciting its electrons to a higher energy state, making it more reactive. 2. Generation of Reactive Species: For example, UV light can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the interaction with a semiconductor catalyst like TiO2, which can then participate in oxidation reactions. 3. Temperature Effects: High-energy radiation such as microwaves can increase the temperature of the catalyst and the reactants, thereby accelerating the reaction rate. 4. Surface Modification: Radiation can alter the surface properties of catalysts, such as creating defects or altering surface chemistry, which can impact their catalytic performance.
