Why are Ruthenium Complexes Important in Catalysis?
Ruthenium complexes are pivotal in catalysis for several reasons: 1. Versatility: Ruthenium can exist in multiple oxidation states, allowing it to participate in a variety of catalytic cycles. 2. Stability: Ruthenium complexes often exhibit high thermal and chemical stability, which is crucial for catalytic processes. 3. Reactivity: The ability of ruthenium to activate small molecules, such as hydrogen and oxygen, makes it an excellent catalyst for oxidation and reduction reactions. 4. Selectivity: Ruthenium catalysts can be designed to favor specific reaction pathways, enhancing the selectivity of the desired product.
