Theories of electron and proton transfer and the need for their development

Abstract

This chapter provides a detailed overview of the evolution of electron and proton transfer research. Significant contributions include Libby's 1952 model, for which R.A. Marcus, provided a solution to the problem of energy conservation in this model by proposing that energy levels can adjust through environmental fluctuations. Henry Taube, made essential contributions highlighting the differences between rigid and labile transition metal complexes in redox reactions. The mechanism of the synchronous transfer of an electron and a proton is also addressed, a consequence of the Frank-Condon principle, which limits the number of electrons transferred simultaneously. The existence of synchronous two-electron transfer processes and their importance in enzymatic reactions are mentioned.Special emphasis is placed on compounds with unusual reactivity and the possibility of synchronous multi-electron transfers. Supramolecular systems and the different applicability of theoretical models in this field are also highlighted. The chapter mentions international nanomachine competitions, where supramolecular systems are used in competitive events, thus emphasizing the practical relevance and continuous innovation in this field of study.