Is the Fenna-Matthews-Olson complex a quantum dot?

In summary, the FMO complex, which falls within the typical size range for quantum dots, is able to absorb photon energy in an effective bandgap between 2-3 eV. While there have been various techniques used to study the behavior of the FMO complex, such as femto photography and polarization-dependent, two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy, these analyses assume that it is the individual molecules within the FMO complex that transfer energy, rather than the complex itself acting as a quantum dot with a coherent electron attracted to a corresponding hole by Coulombic attraction. This could explain the transfer of energy from the chlorosomes to the reaction center, as the coherent electron loses coherence and localizes at the reaction center.
  • #1
Christopher Rourk
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The FMO complex has a size that is within the typical size range for quantum dots, and absorbs photon energy at what appears to be an effective bandgap between 2-3 eV. While various techniques have been used to investigate the behavior of the FMO complex, such as femto photography or polarization-dependent, two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy, see www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006349508702595, the assumption implicit in these analyses appears to be that it is the component molecules of the FMO complex that are transferring energy between each other, as opposed to the FMO complex itself behaving like a quantum dot with a coherent electron attracted to a corresponding hole by Coulombic attraction. Transfer of energy from the chlorosomes to the reaction center could be explained by the coherent electron losing coherence and localizing at the reaction center.
 
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@Christopher Rourk please do not set a small font size in your posts. I have used magic moderator powers to restore the font size to normal.
 

1. What is the Fenna-Matthews-Olson (FMO) complex?

The Fenna-Matthews-Olson complex is a protein complex found in certain types of bacteria, specifically green sulfur bacteria. It is involved in the process of photosynthesis, specifically in the transfer of energy from light-harvesting antenna complexes to the reaction center where energy is converted into chemical energy.

2. How does the FMO complex relate to quantum dots?

The FMO complex has been compared to a quantum dot due to its unique electronic properties, specifically its ability to transfer energy in a quantum coherent manner. This means that the energy is transferred without any loss or dissipation, similar to how electrons move within a quantum dot. However, the FMO complex is a naturally occurring biological system, while quantum dots are artificially created.

3. Why is the FMO complex important in the study of quantum biology?

The FMO complex has been a subject of interest in the field of quantum biology because of its ability to transfer energy in a quantum coherent manner. This has implications for understanding how biological systems are able to efficiently harvest and use energy from light, and how quantum effects may play a role in biological processes.

4. How is the FMO complex studied in the laboratory?

The FMO complex is typically studied using various spectroscopic techniques, such as fluorescence and absorption spectroscopy. These techniques allow researchers to observe the energy transfer processes within the complex and understand its electronic properties. Additionally, advanced imaging techniques, such as cryo-electron microscopy, can provide detailed structural information about the complex.

5. What are the potential applications of the FMO complex in technology?

The unique properties of the FMO complex, such as its efficient energy transfer and stability, have potential applications in technology, particularly in the development of more efficient solar cells. The understanding of how the FMO complex functions at the quantum level may also inspire new approaches for designing and improving other types of energy-harvesting systems.

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