How Does Surface Composition Affect Catalytic Reactions?
The surface composition impacts catalytic reactions in several ways:
Active Sites: The presence and distribution of active sites on the surface are crucial for the catalytic performance. These sites are often specific arrangements of atoms that facilitate the reaction. Adsorption and Desorption: The ability of the catalyst to adsorb reactants and desorb products is influenced by surface composition. For instance, a higher concentration of certain atoms may enhance adsorption capacities. Electronic Properties: The electronic structure of the surface atoms can alter the energy levels of the reactants, thereby affecting the reaction rate and pathway.
