Chemistry
In Situ Spectroelectrochemistry for Identifying Reaction Intermediates
Quick fact
One of the oldest and most successful examples of in situ spectroelectrochemistry is the detection of the one-electron reduction intermediate of methyl viologen (paraquat), which shows a deep blue color, enabling the direct observation of a radical cation that is crucial for its herbicidal activity.
Why this is interesting
Have you ever wondered how chemists spot molecules that exist for only a fraction of a second? In situ spectroelectrochemistry lets us watch these fleeting intermediates as they form during an electrochemical reaction.