Photochromism of Spiropyran

Spiropyran (colorless) → Merocyanine (colored)

Visão geral

UV light causes the C–O bond in spiropyran to break, opening the ring to form the planar, conjugated merocyanine isomer that absorbs visible light and appears colored. Visible light or heat reverses the reaction. This reversible photochromism is the basis for smart materials that change color in response to light.

Exemplo do cotidiano

Photochromic sunglasses (Transitions lenses) that darken in sunlight use similar photochromic molecules that reversibly change structure.

Importância industrial

Os materiais fotocrómicos são utilizados em óculos fotocromáticos, janelas inteligentes, armazenamento ótico de dados e interruptores moleculares para nanotecnologia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Photochromism of Spiropyran?
The balanced equation is: Spiropyran (colorless) → Merocyanine (colored).
What type of reaction is Photochromism of Spiropyran?
Photochromism of Spiropyran is a photochemical reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Photochromism of Spiropyran exothermic or endothermic?
Photochromism of Spiropyran is endothermic (absorbs energy).