Molecular orbitals imaged in 3D, opening path to femtosecond videos
One of the most famous and intriguing results of quantum mechanics is the finding that fundamental particles, such as electrons, cannot be pinned down to one single location.
One of the most famous and intriguing results of quantum mechanics is the finding that fundamental particles, such as electrons, cannot be pinned down to one single location.
The short version
- Instead, a particle is described by its "wavefunction," which allows researchers to derive probability distributions—a sort of mathematical map that shows the possibilities—of fundamental properties such as its position and momentum.
- In particular, the electron wavefunctions within a molecule, known as "molecular orbitals," carry information about how the molecule interacts with its surroundings.
- For example, they show how it may absorb light or how a chemical reaction might take place.
What happened
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . DOI: 10.1038/s41467-026-74308-1 MA in English, copy editor since 2021 with experience in higher education and health content.
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