How Does Trigonal Bipyramidal Geometry Affect Reactivity?
The reactivity of a catalyst with trigonal bipyramidal geometry is influenced by the positioning and electronic properties of the ligands. The axial and equatorial positions exhibit different steric and electronic environments, which can be exploited to tailor the catalyst for specific reactions. For example, the steric hindrance in the equatorial plane can be used to promote selective activation of substrates, while the axial positions can facilitate the binding and stabilization of intermediates, enhancing the overall catalytic efficiency.