Surface Absorption and Catalysis

This lecture delves into the absorption of molecules on surfaces, focusing on the formation of ordered arrays and surface bonds. The instructor explains how molecules interact, repel, and attract each other, leading to the breaking of bonds crucial for catalysis and chemical reactions. The discussion extends to the importance of specific surfaces in hydrogen economy and CO2 reduction, emphasizing the need for efficient catalysts. The lecture also explores the significance of hybridization, Fermi levels, and electronic band structures in catalytic processes, highlighting the challenges and research efforts in finding alternative materials for catalysis. The concept of bands in molecular orbitals is elucidated, showcasing the intricate relationship between atomic orbitals and molecular bonding.