First atomic-level video of catalytic reaction reveals hidden pathways

Scientists catch catalysis in action at the atomic level for the first time

Catalysis is the process where a chemical reaction is sped up. For the first time, scientists have directly observed a catalytic reaction at the atomic scale in real time. The reaction involves the removal of hydrogen atoms from alcohol molecules. In amazing new videos, individual atoms are seen moving and shaking during the reaction. The study is published in the journal Chem. “By visualising this process and following the reaction mechanisms, …

Watch Atoms Move: The First-Ever Video of Catalysis in Action

Scientists have captured the first-ever video of atoms in motion during a chemical reaction, revealing hidden pathways and short-lived molecules previously impossible to observe. Using a new type of electron microscopy, the team watched a catalyst strip hydrogen atoms from alcohol molecules in real time. The discovery could revolutionize how we design greener and more [...]

First atomic-level video of catalytic reaction reveals hidden pathways

A Northwestern University-led international team of scientists has, for the first time, directly observed catalysis in-action at the atomic level.

An international team of scientists led by the University of the Northwest has, for the first time, directly observed catalysis in action at the atomic level. In the fascinating new videos, unique atoms move and shake during a chemical reaction that eliminates hydrogen atoms from an alcohol molecule. By looking at the process in real time, [...]