Exploring Molecular Patterns: Phenyl-TOTA’s Unique Interaction with Gold Surfaces

In these striking images, each glowing green dot represents a single molecule positioned on a gold surface. Specifically, these dots are phenyl-functionalized trioxatriangulenium (phenyl-TOTA) molecules, characterized by a phenyl ring protruding from a bowl-shaped base.

Molecular Patterns on Gold Surface

Captured by Behzad Mortezapour, a PhD candidate in Richard Berndt’s lab at Christian Albrecht University Kiel, these images were obtained using a high-resolution scanning tunneling microscope (STM). The meticulous observations revealed that the phenyl-TOTA molecules fit neatly into the grooves of the gold’s crystalline structure, resulting in distinct hexagonal and linear patterns.

Investigating Molecular Rotation

The researchers utilized the STM to explore whether rotating the phenyl ring of one phenyl-TOTA could influence the rotation of a neighboring molecule. Thanks to the impressive resolution of their microscope, they zoomed in on the individual molecular dots, discovering that under certain conditions, each dot appeared to split into two.

This intriguing phenomenon was ultimately linked to the alignment of each phenyl ring, shedding light on molecular interactions at a fundamental level.

Further Research and Engagement

For more insights into this groundbreaking research, you can read the published paper in ACS Nano. Additionally, if you’re passionate about science and photography, consider entering our photo contest for a chance to win prizes!

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