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Proton coupled electron transfer (PCET) reactions form the cornerstone of the multiple synthetic and biological chemical sequences with widespread applications and interests. Hence, the detailed study and mechanistic elucidation of this key step, along with a proper understanding of what factors govern such reactivity is of fundamental importance. The first part of the talk will focus on the PCET reactivity of a biomimetic [CuOH]2+ (formally copper(III)-hydroxide complex), which has been postulated to be a key reactive intermediate in the catalytic cycle of some copper derived oxygenase enzymes. The second part of the talk will focus on the PCET reactivity of metal-hydride complexes, which are crucial intermediates in important reactions including proton reduction, nitrogen reduction and carbon dioxide reduction among others. The factors governing the electrochemical formation (via PCET) of a family of one such model cobalt-hydride complex will be presented. Finally, the results of some ongoing studies focused on strategies aimed at covalently immobilizing such compounds on electrode surfaces tin order to explore PCET at heterogenous interfaces will be discussed. |