The catalytic activity of a material is often enhanced at the nanoscale due to the increased number of surface atoms. These atoms have unsatisfied valences that make them highly reactive, thereby providing more active sites for catalytic reactions. This is why nanocatalysts are extensively used in chemical processes to increase efficiency and selectivity. For example, platinum nanoparticles are widely used in fuel cells and automobile catalytic converters due to their high surface atom content and superior catalytic performance.
