On the dynamics of electrochemical ion-transfer reactions

A model electrochemical ion-transfer reaction is investigated by molecular dynamics simulations. Non-equilibrium solvation effects can lead to barrier recrossings when the ion passes the transition state. The resulting transmission coefficient, which measures the deviation of the rate from the predictions of the transition state theory, is in good agreement with the Grote–Hynes theory. By contrast, Kramers theory predicts a much lower rate constant. The reaction occurs in the polarization caging regime of Grote–Hynes theory, in which the solvent motion controls the advance of the reaction. Furthermore, the molecular friction depends strongly on the distance from the electrode.