Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂)

2H2O → 2H2 + O2

Descripción general

Titanium dioxide absorbs UV light and generates electron-hole pairs that can split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Discovered by Fujishima and Honda in 1972, this reaction is the basis of artificial photosynthesis research. The bandgap of TiO₂ (3.2 eV) limits absorption to UV, so researchers are developing visible-light photocatalysts.

Participantes

Rol Sustancia Coeficiente Estado
Reactivo Water H₂O 2 (l)

Ejemplo cotidiano

Self-cleaning glass windows are coated with TiO₂ that photocatalytically decomposes organic dirt when exposed to sunlight.

Importancia industrial

Área de investigación clave para la producción de hidrógeno solar limpio en la economía del hidrógeno.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂)?
The balanced equation is: 2H₂O → 2H₂ + O₂.
What type of reaction is Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂)?
Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂) is a photochemical reaction.
Is Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂) exothermic or endothermic?
Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂) is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 572.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂)?
This reaction requires a catalyst (TiO₂ (titanium dioxide)).