Can We Split Molecules Using Chain Reactions?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of splitting molecules and the process of chemical reactions. It is mentioned that photochemical reactions involve free radicals and weak chemical bonds can be broken with an STM probe. The conversation also touches on hydrogen-powered engines and the separation of molecules, as well as the dissociation of salt molecules in water. Overall, the conversation highlights the ability to split molecules and how it is a common occurrence in various scientific processes.
  • #1
u235
12
0
Can we split the molecule yet>?
I don't mean to spilt the atom causing a nuetron to become free, but cause a molecule chain reaction...>?
 
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  • #2
u235 said:
Can we split the molecule yet>?
Yes, this is what chamical reactions do, all the time.


I don't mean to spilt the atom causing a nuetron to become free, but cause a molecule chain reaction...>?
Yes, look up photochemical reactions. In these reactions, free radicals play a role similar to the extra neutrons from nuclear chain reactions.

I believe it is also possible to break weak chemical bonds with an STM probe (folks at IBM research labs have been playing with stuff like this) but this doesn't, in general, result in a chain reaction of any kind.
 
  • #3
If you are famlair with a polo mint (lifesavers in the US perhaps?), I believe if you snap one half you are actually breaking intermolecular bonds (though I could be wrong, it may just be intramolecular bonds), infact if you do it in the dark you can even see a small flash of light.
 
  • #4
hey.


ok i was just wondering how the hydrogen powered engine separates the hydrogen from the oxygen in water. i was reading up on it, and it does this for the hydrogen, and then the oxygen is released into the air instead of carbon monoxide. so how does this contraption separate h2o molecules without causing a huge atomic explosion? surly separating a molecule like that would mean either rushing in electrons, and the ions would no longer need to bond with each other.. or I am just being stupid since I've never really taken any physics classes. i just know that the molecules are bonded by electrons orbiting different atoms in this infinity-8 shaped orbit or something.

but also what you said-a lifesaver breaking in the dark- i can understand that happening. but does that mean if you snap something a lot bigger, why doesn't it create a huge spark? like wood snapping or something..
 
  • #5
You pour table salt into water and the salt dissolves. A fair number of the salt (NaCl) molecules will dissociate into Na+ and Cl- ions- you've split the molecule!

An atom is a part of a molecule. Since we've been able to split the atom since the 1940's isn't it obvious that we had to have been able to split a molecule long before that?
 

1. What does it mean to "split molecules"?

Splitting molecules refers to the process of breaking down a larger molecule into smaller, individual molecules. This can be done through various chemical reactions or physical processes.

2. Can all molecules be split?

No, not all molecules can be split. Some molecules are stable and cannot be broken down without extreme conditions, while others may not have the right chemical bonds to be split.

3. What are some ways to split molecules?

Molecules can be split through processes such as hydrolysis, oxidation, reduction, and thermal decomposition. These reactions involve breaking chemical bonds within the molecule and creating new substances.

4. Why do scientists want to split molecules?

Splitting molecules can provide valuable insight into the chemical and physical properties of substances. It also allows for the creation of new molecules with different properties, which can have various applications in industries such as medicine and materials science.

5. What are the potential risks of splitting molecules?

Splitting molecules can release energy, potentially causing explosions or other hazardous reactions. Additionally, the byproducts of splitting molecules may be toxic or harmful to the environment if not properly disposed of. It is important for scientists to carefully consider and mitigate these risks before conducting experiments involving molecule splitting.

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