Why are Transition Metals Commonly Used as Metal Centers?
Transition metals are commonly used as metal centers because of their unique ability to undergo changes in oxidation state, which is essential for many catalytic processes. Their d-orbitals allow for diverse bonding interactions with reactants, intermediates, and products, thereby facilitating complex reaction mechanisms. Transition metals such as palladium, platinum, rhodium, and nickel are frequently employed in catalysis due to their versatile catalytic properties.
