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AC Electrokinetic Phenomena Generated by Microelectrode Structures
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Nanomotors Driven by Viscous ac Currents.

Vladimir U Nazarov1, Tchavdar N Todorov2, E K U Gross1

  • 1Fritz Haber Research Center of Molecular Dynamics, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Institute of Chemistry, Jerusalem, Israel.

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|April 3, 2026
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Electrons acting as a viscous liquid enable a novel nanomotor design. This molecular waterwheel demonstrates continuous rotation under specific alternating current conditions, showcasing electronic viscosity

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Area of Science:

  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Nanotechnology
  • Molecular Machines

Background:

  • Recent discovery reveals electrons in nanoscale conductors behave as a viscous liquid.
  • This emergent electronic viscosity has profound implications for nanoscale phenomena.
  • Understanding electronic friction is crucial for designing functional nanodevices.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the influence of electronic viscosity on a prototypical alternating current (ac)-driven nanomotor.
  • To demonstrate the feasibility of a nanomotor based on a diatomic molecule in an electron liquid.
  • To identify the operational parameters for stable nanomotor function.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized ab initio time-dependent density-functional theory (TD-DFT) simulations.
  • Modeled a diatomic molecule immersed in an ac current-carrying electron liquid.
  • Analyzed the interplay between current-induced forces and electronic friction on molecular motion.

Main Results:

  • Demonstrated that electronic viscosity significantly impacts nanomotor operation.
  • Showcased that the nanomotor achieves continuous rotation within specific ac current amplitude and frequency zones.
  • Observed irregular motion or cessation of movement outside these stable zones.

Conclusions:

  • The proposed nanomotor design, a molecular waterwheel, is a conceptually simple realization of harnessing electronic viscosity.
  • Stable operation is achievable by tuning ac current parameters, highlighting the role of electronic friction.
  • This work opens avenues for novel nanoscale devices driven by collective electron behavior.