What Are Some Common Types of Electronic Interactions?
Several types of electronic interactions are pivotal in catalysis:
Metal-Ligand Interactions: These occur when a ligand donates electron density to a metal center, often modifying the electronic properties and reactivity of the metal. π-Backbonding: This involves the donation of electron density from a filled d-orbital of a transition metal to an empty π* orbital of a ligand, such as CO or ethylene, enhancing catalytic efficiency. Charge Transfer: Electrons are transferred between the catalyst and the substrate, either as part of the reaction mechanism or to activate the substrate for subsequent reactions.