[News & Trends]:Catalysts and ligands: tacit partners in chemical reactions

Catalysts and ligands play important roles in chemical reactions, with both similarities and clear differences between them. This article will analyze the differences between catalysts and ligands, and introduce their roles in chemical reactions


1、 Catalyst is a substance that can accelerate the rate of chemical reactions, but it does not participate in the reaction itself. It makes the reaction occur faster by providing a lower energy reaction pathway. Catalysts can be added at the beginning of the reaction and reacquired after the reaction is completed


The characteristics of catalysts are as follows: 


1 Catalysts can be used multiple times without being consumed

2. Catalysts can reduce the activation energy of the reaction

3. Catalysts can play different roles in reactions, such as providing surface active sites


There are various types of catalysts, including transition metal catalysts, enzyme catalysts, acid-base catalysts, etc. They have different applicable ranges and reaction types based on different catalytic mechanisms


2、 Ligands are molecules or ions that can form complexes with metals or other central ions. They form stable coordination bonds by giving one or more pairs of electrons to the central ion. The selection of ligands has a significant impact on the activity and selectivity of catalysts


The characteristics of ligands are as follows: 


1 Ligands can bind to central ions through coordination bonds

2. Ligands can regulate the properties of catalysts, such as changing their electronic properties, spatial configuration, etc

The selection of ligands can alter the activity and selectivity of catalysts


Ligands can be organic compounds, inorganic salts, coordination polymers, etc. Different ligands can form different types of complexes, thereby regulating the activity and reaction type of catalysts


3、 There are several obvious differences between catalysts and ligands: Different ways of participation: Catalysts do not undergo chemical changes during the reaction, while ligands combine with central ions to form complexes

2. Different effects: The catalyst accelerates the reaction rate by reducing the activation energy, while the ligand affects the reaction process by adjusting the properties of the catalyst

3. Different usage methods: Catalysts can be used multiple times, while ligands are difficult to detach after complex formation


4、 The role of catalysts and ligands in chemical reactions 


Catalysts and ligands cooperate with each other in chemical reactions, playing their respective roles and jointly promoting the progress of the reaction


The role of catalysts in chemical reactions is mainly reflected in the following aspects: 


1 Reduce the activation energy of the reaction to make it easier for the reaction to occur

2. Provide surface active sites to increase opportunities for reactant adsorption and interaction

3. Adjust the reaction pathway to affect the selectivity of the reaction


The role of ligands in chemical reactions is mainly reflected in the following aspects: 


1 Affects the properties of catalysts, such as altering their electronic properties, spatial configuration, etc

2. Regulate the activity and selectivity of the catalyst

3. Provide coordination bonds to stabilize the central ion and regulate the reaction process


In short, catalysts and ligands are tacit partners in chemical reactions. They synergistically promote the progress of the reaction through their unique roles. Understanding the differences between catalysts and ligands helps us better understand and master the mechanisms of chemical reactions, providing greater possibilities for developing new catalysts and improving reaction efficiency.