The medium affects several key aspects of catalytic reactions:
Solubility: The medium can enhance or hinder the solubility of reactants and catalysts, which directly impacts the reaction rate. Stability: It can stabilize intermediates, transition states, and the catalyst itself, thereby affecting the reaction pathway and efficiency. Polarity: The polarity of the medium can influence the distribution of charges and dipoles, altering the interaction between reactants and the catalyst.
