A Simple Molecule-Based Octastate Switch

Dithienylethene oxazolidine hybrid system connected through an isomerizable double bond exists under eight molecular states on demand. Combinations of electrocyclization of dithienylethene, Z/E isomerization and acidbase oxazolidine change cause selective addressabilities. Two intricate gated photochromic performances allow the execution of an 8-step molecular switch, which renders this molecular system the most complex known up to date.