n this episode of The Chemistry Show, we dive into chemisorption—the process of forming strong chemical bonds between molecules and surfaces—and its vital role in nanocatalysis. 🌟 Discover the Sabatier principle and how volcano plots reveal the "sweet spot" of binding energy for optimal catalytic performance—striking a balance between binding too tightly or too loosely. We also explore how chemisorption trends across the periodic table shape catalytic activity in key reactions, like CO oxidation and ammonia synthesis, highlighting the periodic table’s predictive power in catalysis. Finally, we examine structure sensitivity in nanoparticle catalysts, uncovering how their size and shape influence activity. Learn how changes in surface atom coordination and electronic properties can dramatically impact catalytic efficiency. 🎧

Powered by AI (Google NotebookLM), this episode transforms lecture materials MATR372 Nanocatalysis course, taught by Prof. Pedro Camargo at the University of Helsinki, into an engaging and easy-to-follow audio experience, perfect for students, science lovers, or anyone curious about the hidden chemistry driving the world around us.