The pH of the electrolyte can drastically influence catalytic reactions, especially in aqueous systems. Catalysts often have an optimal pH range in which their activity is maximized. For example, enzymatic catalysts are highly sensitive to pH changes, which can alter their structure and activity. In non-biological systems, pH can affect the surface charge of catalysts, the solubility of reactants, and the stability of intermediates, thereby impacting the overall reaction rate and selectivity.
