Affiliation:
1. Division of Theoretical Chemistry IFM Linköping University 58183 Linköping Sweden
2. Division of Theoretical Physics IFM Linköping University 58183 Linköping Sweden
Abstract
AbstractThe construction of molecular photogears that can achieve through‐space transmission of the unidirectional double‐bond rotary motion of light‐driven molecular motors onto a remote single‐bond axis is a formidable challenge in the field of artificial molecular machines. Here, we present a proof‐of‐principle design of such photogears that is based on the possibility of using stereogenic substituents to control both the relative stabilities of two helical forms of the photogear and the double‐bond photoisomerization reaction that connects them. The potential of the design was verified by quantum‐chemical modeling through which photogearing was found to be a favorable process compared to free‐standing single‐bond rotation (“slippage”). Overall, our study unveils a surprisingly simple approach to realizing unidirectional photogearing.
Funder
Vetenskapsrådet
Olle Engkvists Stiftelse
Carl Tryggers Stiftelse för Vetenskaplig Forskning
Subject
General Chemistry,Catalysis,Organic Chemistry