Nobel prize: molecular machines

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the 2016 Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded for the design and synthesis of molecular machines. Participants explore the implications, challenges, and excitement surrounding these small-scale constructions, particularly in relation to their functionality and the influence of thermal noise.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants highlight the complexity of creating molecular machines, noting the significant role of thermal noise at such small scales, while suggesting that it can sometimes be harnessed as an energy source.
  • One participant mentions the existence of molecular motors in living organisms, specifically citing kinesin as an example.
  • Another participant expresses a lack of expertise in molecular machines but finds the topic interesting.
  • There is a suggestion that molecular machines may not exist as a distinct category, with one participant proposing that nanotechnology or MEMS engineering might be more relevant fields.
  • Some participants express awe at the advancements in molecular machines, with one noting that nature's designs are difficult to replicate.
  • A participant shares a personal connection to one of the laureates, Ben Feringa, and describes him positively.
  • There are expressions of excitement about the potential future applications and implications of molecular machines.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express fascination with the topic, but there is no consensus on the classification or existence of molecular machines as a distinct field. Some participants question the terminology and relevance of molecular machines compared to other fields like nanotechnology.

Contextual Notes

Some discussions may depend on specific definitions of molecular machines, and there are unresolved questions regarding the practical applications and theoretical implications of these constructs.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in chemistry, nanotechnology, molecular biology, and the intersection of these fields may find the discussion relevant and engaging.

DrClaude
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The Nobel prize in chemistry for 2016 has been awarded "for the design and synthesis of molecular machines."

These are fascinating constructions made up of just a few molecules, so they are the smallest machines possible. It is far from trivial to get these things working, especially since thermal noise is important at that scale (although in some cases, thermal noise can be rectified and serve as a source of energy).

The popular scientific description can be found here: http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/chemistry/laureates/2016/popular-chemistryprize2016.pdf

For a more in-depth description: http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/chemistry/laureates/2016/advanced-chemistryprize2016.pdf

P.-S.: As always, Nature had beaten us to it, as there are molecules in living organisms that are basically molecular motors. The most striking example is kinesin, the "walking" molecule fueled by ATP:
 
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Chemistry news on Phys.org
Congratulations to the three!

Prof. Feringa came to my university last year. Unfortunately, I was not in my country back then and I could not go see his lecture (Interestingly, I was in the Netherlands that time).

My major is not molecular machines, so I can't really say much about it, but it sure is interesting.
 
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Likes   Reactions: Logical Dog
Definitely fascinating subject.
 
Just ran into this thread and it needs to be bumped! Amazing!
 
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HAYAO said:
My major is not molecular machines,

lol I don't think it is exists, closest I can think of is nanotechnology or MEMS engineering.
 
The video made my mouth open as wide as it can. Literally.

The thing is we will never catch up with nature. We just follow what it does and try to replicate.
 
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One of the laureates, Ben Feringa, is a professor of "my" university (Groningen, Holland). A very down-to-earth and genuine guy, as far as I know him.
 
Greg Bernhardt said:
Just ran into this thread and it needs to be bumped! Amazing!
It had my head spinning for days.
There is a lot of "future science" embedded in this idea, IMHO.
 

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