Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026

Using Laser Scanning Microscopy to Determine Electromigration in Molybdenum Disilicide
Published on: May 23, 2025
Molecules as wires: molecule-assisted movement of charge and energy
Emily A Weiss1, Michael R Wasielewski, Mark A Ratner
1Department of Chemistry and Center for Nanofabrication and Molecular Self-Assembly, Northwestern University, 2145, N. Sheridan Rd., IL 60208-3113, Evanston, USA, eweiss@chem.northwestern.edu.
Abstract:
In this chapter, we explore experimental and theoretical aspects of molecular wire-like charge transport from the mechanistic point of view. We discuss competition between coherent superexchange and sequential mechanisms of transport through donor-bridge-acceptor systems, where the donor and acceptor are either molecules or metal/semiconductor contacts. The focus is on the two major determinants of mechanism: electronic coupling and energy level matching. Some methods of calculating conductance are outlined, and the relationship between conductance in a metal/molecule/metal junction and electron transfer, where donor and acceptor have relatively discrete electronic energy levels is explored. Finally, we give several examples of chemical systems that have displayed wire-like behavior and discuss their characterization.
More Related Videos
11:09Characterizing the Composition of Molecular Motors on Moving Axonal Cargo Using "Cargo Mapping" Analysis
Published on: October 30, 2014
12:05A Simple, Robust, and High Throughput Single Molecule Flow Stretching Assay Implementation for Studying Transport of Molecules Along DNA
Published on: October 1, 2017
Related Concept Videos
Ions, Molecules, and Compounds
Drift Velocity
Covalent Bonds
Covalent Bonds
When two atoms share electrons to complete their valence shells, they create a covalent bond. An atom's electronegativity—the force with which shared electrons are pulled towards an atom—determines how the electrons are shared. Molecules formed with covalent bonds can be either polar or nonpolar. Atoms with similar electronegativities form nonpolar covalent bonds; the electrons are shared equally. Atoms with different electronegativities share electrons unequally, creating polar bonds.
The Movement of Organelles and Vesicles
The Electrical Double Layer