Nanoparticles exhibit high reactivity for several reasons:
Surface Area-to-Volume Ratio: As particles decrease in size to the nanoscale, the proportion of atoms on the surface increases significantly, providing more active sites for reactions. Quantum Effects: At the nanoscale, quantum effects become pronounced, altering the electronic properties and chemical reactivity of the particles. Defects and Edges: Nanoparticles often have a high number of defects, edges, and corners, which are typically more chemically active than the flat surfaces of bulk materials.
