The increase in reactivity at the nanoscale can be attributed to several factors: 1. Surface Area to Volume Ratio: As particles become smaller, their surface area relative to their volume increases. This allows more atoms or molecules to be exposed to reactants, facilitating more interactions. 2. Quantum Effects: At the nanoscale, materials exhibit unique quantum properties that can alter their electronic, optical, and chemical behavior. 3. Defects and Edge Sites: Nanomaterials often have a higher concentration of defects and edge sites, which can serve as active sites for chemical reactions.
