Molecular information gathering and proces- sing -- a young field of applied chemistry -- is undergoing good growth. The progress is occurring both in terms of conceptual development and in terms of the strengthening ...Molecular information gathering and proces- sing -- a young field of applied chemistry -- is undergoing good growth. The progress is occurring both in terms of conceptual development and in terms of the strengthening of older concepts with new examples. This review critically surveys these two broad avenues. We consider some cases where molecules emulate one of the building blocks of electronic logic gates. We then examine molecular emulation of various Boolean logic gates carrying one, two or three inputs. Some single-input gates are popular information gathering devices. Special systems, such as ＇lab-on-a-molecule＇ and molecular key- pad locks, also receive attention. A situation deviating from the Boolean blueprint is also discussed. Some pointers are offered for maintaining the upward curve of the field.展开更多
文摘Molecular information gathering and proces- sing -- a young field of applied chemistry -- is undergoing good growth. The progress is occurring both in terms of conceptual development and in terms of the strengthening of older concepts with new examples. This review critically surveys these two broad avenues. We consider some cases where molecules emulate one of the building blocks of electronic logic gates. We then examine molecular emulation of various Boolean logic gates carrying one, two or three inputs. Some single-input gates are popular information gathering devices. Special systems, such as ＇lab-on-a-molecule＇ and molecular key- pad locks, also receive attention. A situation deviating from the Boolean blueprint is also discussed. Some pointers are offered for maintaining the upward curve of the field.
