The importance of thermodynamics for molecular systems, and the importance of molecular systems for thermodynamics

Thomas E. Ouldridge

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arXiv · 1702.00360

The importance of thermodynamics for molecular systems, and the importance of molecular systems for thermodynamics

Thomas E. Ouldridge

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Abstract

Improved understanding of molecular systems has only emphasised the sophistication of networks within the cell. Simultaneously, the advance of nucleic acid nanotechnology, a platform within which reactions can be exquisitely controlled, has made the development of artificial architectures and devices possible. Vital to this progress has been a solid foundation in the thermodynamics of molecular systems. In this pedagogical review and perspective, I will discuss how thermodynamics determines both the overall potential of molecular networks, and the minute details of design. I will then argue that, in turn, the need to understand molecular systems is helping to drive the development of theories of thermodynamics at the microscopic scale.

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Thomas E. Ouldridge. 2017-02-01. The importance of thermodynamics for molecular systems, and the importance of molecular systems for thermodynamics. https://arxiv.org/abs/1702.00360

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