Classical approach to multichromophoric resonance energy transfer

Area of Science:

• Quantum mechanics
• Molecular physics
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Resonance energy transfer (RET) is crucial for energy transport in molecular systems.
• Existing quantum theories can be complex for multichromophoric systems.
• Classical electrodynamics offers an alternative framework for understanding RET.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a classical formulation of the quantum multichromophoric theory of resonance energy transfer.
• To identify and describe various interaction orders contributing to energy transfer in molecular aggregates.
• To demonstrate the theory's ability to predict enhanced energy transfer rates.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of a classical theory based on classical electrodynamics.
• Analysis of interactions within molecular aggregates, including intracoupling.
• Application of the theory to specific systems, such as light harvesting II.

Main Results:

• The classical theory successfully describes enhanced rates in multichromophoric resonance energy transfer.
• Predicts an energy transfer rate enhancement dependent on the number of donor-acceptor pairs.
• Achieves excellent agreement with experimental data for light harvesting II.

Conclusions:

• A classical electrodynamics-based theory provides a robust framework for multichromophoric resonance energy transfer.
• The theory formally coincides with quantum formulations under linear response theory.
• This classical approach simplifies the understanding of complex energy transfer processes.