Using sophisticated molecules researchers have created computer-like operations in solution. In a study recently published in the journal New J. Chem., chemists from the University of Malta have made a new molecular sensor that can determine the presence of two different chemicals at the same time. This novel substance can be used to detect corrosion or blood disorders.
The molecule works as an AND gate normally associated with computing or electrical engineering. An AND gate only works when two conditions are satisfied at the same time. Take the following analogy, imagine going to the movies with a friend. You have arrived early, but your friend isn’t there yet. Once your friend arrives, it’s him AND you that are present, so you can both go in and see the movie.
Molecular AND gates work in a similar way, but instead of friends, they detect certain substances. The molecule the Maltese chemists made senses ferric iron (Fe3+) and hydrogen ions (H+). These measure the redox potential and acidity (pH) of a solution. On detection of both ions, the molecule gives off a bright green light. No green glow is seen if one or both chemicals are absent.
For this to work, the molecule is excited with UV light, which acts as a power source. Once in this excited state, the molecule transfers electric charge between neighboring atoms. However, the presence of both the Fe3+ and H+ ions stops the electric charge’s motion, and instead, results in light being given off by the molecule. The end result is that it glows bright green, which can be seen by the naked eye.
Contrary to traditional computing, this molecular computer just needs UV light as a power source. The potential is clear for emergency or remote situations. The researchers think that this technology, by seeing the relationship between redox potential and acidity, can be used in cell biology, and to detect corrosion and blood disorders. Other logical molecules exist that could be used in many other areas of technology, science and health.
Did you know…
• The first electronic multi-purpose computer, ENIAC, was announced back in 1946 by the US military.
• Heavy metals are toxic to humans, traces of which are found in seafood around Malta. But don’t worry, they are closely monitored and safe to eat.
• Malta has only been populated for about 7,200 years. The first people were settlers from Sicily.
•When stretched one strand of human DNA would be about two metres long. All strands in a single human combined could reach the sun four times.
For more trivia: www.um.edu.mt/think
Sound bites
• A new planet, Kepler-1647b, has recently been discovered, which is the biggest known planet in a double star system, yet. It is roughly the same age as earth, around 4.4 billion years, but also 1,300 times bigger. Being made up entirely of gas it is highly unlikely the planet hosts any life, but for certainty we would need to clear the tremendous 3,700 light-year distance first. Because of their two suns, these planets are called Tatooine planets, in reference to the Star Wars universe.
www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-06/nsfc-npi061316.php
• Exercise is good for you and even your bones. A study showed that children who exercised regularly had denser bones than those who didn’t. This even holds if the children have a genetic predisposition for low bone strength. Around 60 minutes of physical activities per day at moderate intensity are being recommended by the US Department of Health and Human Services.
www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2016-06/chop-pab061316.php