1. Light Absorption: The photocatalyst absorbs photons, which excite electrons from the valence band to the conduction band, creating electron-hole pairs. 2. Charge Separation: The electrons and holes migrate to the surface of the photocatalyst. 3. Redox Reactions: The electrons and holes participate in redox reactions with adsorbed substances, leading to the degradation of pollutants or the splitting of water molecules.