Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Multiscale Sampling of a Heterogeneous Water/Metal Catalyst Interface using Density Functional Theory and Force-Field Molecular Dynamics
Published on: April 12, 2019
Revealing the active intermediates in the oxidation of formic acid on Au and Pt(111)
Wang Gao1, Er Hong Song, Qing Jiang
1Institut für Elektrochemie, Universität Ulm, 89 081 Ulm (Germany), Fax: (+49) 731-50-25409. wang.gao@uni-ulm.de.
Abstract:
The mechanisms of formic acid (HCOOH) oxidation on Au(111) under gas-phase and electrochemical conditions was studied by using density functional theory and then compared with the analogous processes on Pt(111). Our results demonstrate that a mechanism involving a single intermediate molecule is preferred on both Au and Pt(111). Furthermore, under gas-phase conditions, HCOOH oxidation proceeds through the same mechanism (formate pathway) on Au and Pt(111), whereas under electrochemical conditions, it can take place through significantly different mechanisms (formate and/or direct pathways), depending on the applied electrode potential. Our calculations help to rationalize conflicting experimental explanations and are crucial for understanding the mechanism of this fundamental (electro-)catalytic process.
More Related Videos
12:08Catalytic Reactions at Amine-Stabilized and Ligand-Free Platinum Nanoparticles Supported on Titania During Hydrogenation of Alkenes and Aldehydes
Published on: June 24, 2022
10:19Synthesis and Testing of Supported Pt-Cu Solid Solution Nanoparticle Catalysts for Propane Dehydrogenation
Published on: July 18, 2017
Related Concept Videos
Oxidation of Alcohols
The process of oxidation in a chemical reaction is observed in any of the three forms:
Radical Oxidation of Allylic and Benzylic Alcohols
Radical Substitution: Hydrogenolysis of Alkyl Halides with Tributyltin Hydride
The bonds formed in this reaction are stronger than the bonds broken, making it energetically favorable. The reaction follows a radical chain mechanism similar to radical halogenation...
ortho–para-Directing Activators: –CH3, –OH, –⁠NH2, –OCH3
Oxidation of Alkenes: Syn Dihydroxylation with Osmium Tetraoxide
Oxidations of Aldehydes and Ketones to Carboxylic Acids
Aldehydes readily undergo oxidation in strong oxidizing agents such as potassium permanganate and chromic acid. The oxidation can also be carried out using mild oxidizing agents such as silver oxide. In fact, aldehydes can be easily oxidized...