Collective Spectroscopy of Solvation Phenomena: Conflicts, Challenges, and Opportunities

Different spectroscopy types reveal different aspects of molecular processes in soft matter. In particular, collective observables can provide insights into intermolecular correlations invisible to the more popular single-particle methods. In this perspective we feature the dielectric relaxation spectroscopy (DRS) with an emphasis on the proper interpretation of this complex observable aided by computational spectroscopy. While we focus on the history and recent advances of DRS in the fields of biomolecular hydration and nanoconfinement, the discussion transcends this particular field and provides a guide for how collective spectroscopy types supported by computational decomposition can be employed to further our understanding of soft matter phenomena.

Automated summary

Different spectroscopy types reveal different aspects of molecular processes in soft matter, with collective observables providing insights into intermolecular correlations. This perspective focuses on the interpretation of dielectric relaxation spectroscopy (DRS) utilizing computational spectroscopy. It discusses the history and recent advances of DRS in biomolecular hydration and nanoconfinement, while also providing guidance on utilizing collective spectroscopy types to understand soft matter phenomena.