Photoisomerization of Azobenzene

trans-Azobenzene → cis-Azobenzene

Visão geral

UV light (340 nm) converts the thermodynamically stable trans isomer of azobenzene to the cis form through rotation around the N=N bond. Visible light (450 nm) or thermal relaxation converts it back. The large geometric change (9 Å to 5.5 Å end-to-end distance) makes azobenzene a versatile molecular switch.

Exemplo do cotidiano

Azobenzene-based molecular motors can move objects millions of times their own mass when triggered by light.

Importância industrial

Os fotointerruptores de azobenzeno são utilizados em máquinas moleculares, sistemas de libertação de fármacos, ecrãs de cristais líquidos e investigação em armazenamento de dados.

Propriedades

Tipo: Photochemical
Reversível: Sim
Energia: Endotérmico
ΔH: 50,0 kJ/mol

Reações relacionadas

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Photoisomerization of Azobenzene?

The balanced equation is: trans-Azobenzene → cis-Azobenzene.

What type of reaction is Photoisomerization of Azobenzene?

Photoisomerization of Azobenzene is a photochemical reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.

Is Photoisomerization of Azobenzene exothermic or endothermic?

Photoisomerization of Azobenzene is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 50.0 kJ/mol.