How Does Tunneling Current Affect Reaction Mechanisms?
Tunneling current can influence reaction mechanisms by altering the electronic environment of catalytic surfaces. For instance, during electron transfer reactions, the tunneling of electrons between the catalyst and reactants can facilitate or hinder the reaction pathway. This effect is particularly significant in heterogeneous catalysis, where the interactions between the catalyst surface and reactant molecules are critical. By studying the tunneling currents, researchers can gain insights into the activation energies and intermediate states involved in catalytic processes.
