Table of Contents
What are Photochemical Reactions?
A photochemical reaction is a chemical reaction that is initiated by light. Sunlight is made up of many different colors of light, each of which has a different wavelength. When light shines on a molecule, it can excite the electrons in that molecule. When the electrons are excited, they can move around more freely and can react with other molecules. Photochemical Reactions – Introduction Examples and Laws of Photochemistry.
Examples of Photochemical Reactions
One example of a photochemical reaction is the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen gas. This reaction is catalyzed by the presence of light and a catalyst, and it occurs more quickly in the presence of ultraviolet light. Another example of a photochemical reaction is the formation of ozone from oxygen gas. This reaction is catalyzed by light and occurs more quickly in the presence of ultraviolet light.
Laws of Photochemistry
In any chemical reaction, the atoms that make up the molecules are rearranged into different molecules. In photochemistry, light energy is used to initiate or accelerate chemical reactions. The photons of light energy cause the atoms to become excited and to jump to a higher energy level. When the atoms return to their normal energy level, they release the energy in the form of heat, light, or some other form of energy.
The energy of the light determines the type of reaction that will take place. Ultraviolet light will cause certain atoms to react, while visible light will not. The wavelength of the light is also important. Shorter wavelengths have more energy than longer wavelengths.
Some of the most common reactions that occur in photochemistry are the decomposition of molecules, the formation of new bonds, and the rearrangement of atoms. Decomposition reactions occur when a molecule is broken down into two or more smaller molecules. Formation reactions occur when two or more atoms are joined together to form a new molecule. Rearrangement reactions occur when atoms are moved from one molecule to another.
Tips to Study Photochemical Reactions
Some tips to study photochemical reactions include understanding the types of energy that can be involved in a photochemical reaction, being able to identify the reactants and products, and understanding the role of light in the reaction. Additionally, it is important to understand the kinetics of the photochemical reaction in order to predict the rate of the reaction.
Photochemical Reactions – Introduction Examples and Laws of Photochemistry.
