Why are Reaction Mechanisms Important in Catalysis?
Understanding the reaction mechanism allows chemists and engineers to:
Optimize Reaction Conditions: By knowing the steps involved, one can adjust temperature, pressure, and concentration to favor the desired pathway. Enhance Selectivity: Selectivity towards a particular product can be improved by modifying the catalyst or conditions to favor specific intermediates. Improve Catalyst Design: Insight into the mechanism helps in designing more effective catalysts that lower the activation energy of the rate-determining step.
