Shape selectivity

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-010798",
  "term": "Shape selectivity",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The influence of the pore structure of a catalyst or molecular sieve on the overall reaction, dictating which molecules can enter, react, or exit. This phenomenon arises when the dimensions of reactant, product, or transition state molecules are comparable to the dimensions of the catalyst's pores. It is a key factor in heterogeneous catalysis, particularly with zeolites, where specific molecular sizes are favored.",
  "subject": "Physical and Biophysical Chemistry",
  "see_also": [
    "catalyst",
    "selectivity"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 1976, 46, 71. 'Manual of Symbols and Terminology for Physicochemical Quantities and Units - Appendix II. Definitions, Terminology and Symbols in Colloid and Surface Chemistry. Part II: Heterogeneous Catalysis' on page 81 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac197646010071)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/shape-selectivity/"
}