Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I conducted the experiment "Water to Fuel to Water..." but changed the metal-based nitrate salts to find the optimum metal for efficient water splitting. However, I want to know why is cobalt the most efficient (it was most efficient beating silver and copper and other metals). What is the chemical explanation/requirement for choosing the best metal for a nitrate salt catalyst?

Hello SP24,

I do not know the exact mechanism by which cobalt catalyzes the production of hydrogen from water, but I think it relates to the particular energy levels of the outer electrons in cobalt. Cobalt has an outer electron shell with seven electrons that it can donate to promote other reactions.

Catalysis reactions are poorly understood in general, and they are the topic of active research.

I looked for information on the web, and I found this paper that discusses cobalt catalysis. Maybe it will help you.

Also be sure you check the papers in the project Bibliography.

Good luck, WW