Illustration of the transition state molecular structure of methylamine (Image courtesy of KAIST)
SEOUL, Feb. 5 (Korea Bizwire) - Korean scientists have achieved a breakthrough in measuring the structure of transition states, the fleeting intermediate phase of chemical reactions that exists for less than a femtosecond (one quadrillionth of a second), KAIST announced on February 4.
A research team led by professor Kim Sang Kyu from KAIST’s Department of Chemistry successfully observed the molecular structure of transition states, which occur between reactants and products during chemical reactions. These transitional structures play a crucial role in determining reaction rates, energy distribution, and product yields.
Using spectroscopic techniques that analyze quantum mechanical molecular structures through light-matter interactions, the team successfully mapped the molecular structure of methylamine (CH3ND2) during its transition state. This marks the first experimental observation of how transition state structures change according to different energy levels.
“Understanding transition state structures will contribute to the design of high-efficiency catalysts that can selectively accelerate specific chemical reactions,” said Kim.
The findings, which could have significant implications for catalyst development, were published in the January issue of Nature Communications.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
