(Solved): (b) For an oxidative addition reaction that proceeds via a concerted mechanism (e.g. the addition o ...

(b) For an oxidative addition reaction that proceeds via a concerted mechanism (e.g. the addition of silanes to Vaska's complex), what effect would the following parameter changes have on the rate of the overall reaction? Give full reasons for your answers referencing the reaction mechanism. (i) Changing the reaction solvent from ether to methanol. (ii) Increasing the concentration of silane reactant. (iii) Changing the phosphine ligand in Vaska's complex from triphenylphosphine to trimethylphosphine. [3 34 marks] (c) What are the main challenges facing the use of transition metal catalysts in the 21st century? [8 marks]