Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂)

2H2O → 2H2 + O2

Aperçu

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.

Participants

Rôle Substance Coefficient État
Réactif Water H₂O 2 (l)

Exemple du quotidien

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

Importance industrielle

Photocatalytic water splitting could produce green hydrogen fuel from sunlight and water, a key goal of renewable energy research.

Propriétés

Type
Photochemical
Réversible
Non
Énergie
Endothermique
ΔH
572,0 kJ/mol
Catalyseur
TiO₂ (titanium dioxide)

Réactions associées

Photochemical Smog Formation (NO₂ Photolysis) Photochromism of Spiropyran Chlorophyll Fluorescence Photodegradation of Methylene Blue by TiO₂ Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas Silver Bromide Photodecomposition Cis-Trans Isomerization of Retinal Photosynthesis Ozone Formation by UV Light Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell)

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)).