title: Molecules as wires: molecule-assisted movement of charge and energy.
abstract: In this chapter, we explore experimental and theoretical aspects of molecular wire-like charge transport from the mechanistic point of view. We discuss competition between coherent superexchange and sequential mechanisms of transport through donor-bridge-acceptor systems, where the donor and acceptor are either molecules or metal/semiconductor contacts. The focus is on the two major determinants of mechanism: electronic coupling and energy level matching. Some methods of calculating conductance are outlined, and the relationship between conductance in a metal/molecule/metal junction and electron transfer, where donor and acceptor have relatively discrete electronic energy levels is explored. Finally, we give several examples of chemical systems that have displayed wire-like behavior and discuss their characterization.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry and Center for Nanofabrication and Molecular Self-Assembly, Northwestern University, 2145, N. Sheridan Rd., IL 60208-3113, Evanston, USA, eweiss@chem.northwestern.edu.
authors.forename: Emily A
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Weiss
authors.forename: Michael R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Wasielewski
authors.forename: Mark A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Ratner