Photoreduction of CO₂ to Methanol
CO2 + 3H2O → CH3OH + 3/2 O2
Overview
Photocatalysts can reduce CO₂ to methanol using sunlight and water, mimicking photosynthesis to produce liquid fuel. Copper-modified TiO₂ and other semiconductor catalysts have shown promising results. This artificial photosynthesis approach could simultaneously address CO₂ emissions and produce renewable fuel.
Participants
| Role | Substance | Coefficient | State |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reactant | Carbon Dioxide CO₂ | 1 | (g) |
| Reactant | Water H₂O | 3 | (l) |
| Product | Methanol CH₃OH | 1 | (l) |
Everyday Example
Researchers envision solar fuel stations that could convert atmospheric CO₂ into methanol fuel using sunlight and water.
Industrial Importance
Solar-to-fuel conversion via CO₂ photoreduction is an active area of research with potential to produce carbon-neutral liquid fuels.
Properties
- Type
- Photochemical
- Reversible
- No
- Energy
- Endothermic
- ΔH
- 727.0 kJ/mol
- Catalyst
- Cu/TiO₂ photocatalyst
Related Reactions
Chlorophyll Fluorescence
Cis-Trans Isomerization of Retinal
Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell)
Firefly Bioluminescence (Luciferin Oxidation)
Luminol Chemiluminescence
Ozone Decomposition by UV
Ozone Formation by UV Light
Photocatalytic NOx Removal
Photocatalytic Water Splitting (TiO₂)
Photochemical Cycloaddition ([2+2])
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Photoreduction of CO₂ to Methanol?
The balanced equation is: CO₂ + 3H₂O → CH₃OH + 3/2 O₂.
What type of reaction is Photoreduction of CO₂ to Methanol?
Photoreduction of CO₂ to Methanol is a photochemical reaction.
Is Photoreduction of CO₂ to Methanol exothermic or endothermic?
Photoreduction of CO₂ to Methanol is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 727.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Photoreduction of CO₂ to Methanol?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Cu/TiO₂ photocatalyst).