How Does the Photoelectric Effect Relate to Catalysis?
In catalysis, the photoelectric effect is harnessed to generate excited electrons and holes, which can participate in various chemical reactions. When a semiconductor material absorbs light, it can create electron-hole pairs. These pairs can then migrate to the surface of the catalyst and interact with adsorbed molecules, facilitating reactions that might be otherwise difficult or slow. This is the basis of photocatalytic activity.
