Quantum Circuit Rules for Molecular Electronic Systems: Where Are We Headed Based on the Current Understanding of Quantum Interference, Thermoelectric, and Molecular Spintronics Phenomena?

In this minireview, we discuss important aspects of the various quantum phenomena (such as quantum interference, spin- dependent charge transport, and thermoelectric effects) relevant in single-molecule charge transport and list some of the basic circuit rules devised for different molecular systems. These quantum phenomena, in conjunction with the existing empirical circuit rules, can help in predicting some of the structure-property relationships in molecular circuits. However, a universal circuit law that predicts the charge transport properties of a molecular circuit has not been derived yet. Having such law(s) will help to design and build a complex molecular device leading to exciting unique applications that are not possible with the traditional silicon-based technologies. Based on the existing knowledge in the literature, here we open the discussion on the possible future research directions for deriving unified circuit law(s) to predict the charge transport in complex single-molecule circuits.

Automated summary

This minireview discusses important aspects of quantum phenomena in single-molecule charge transport and the basic circuit rules devised for different molecular systems. While a universal circuit law for predicting charge transport properties has not been derived yet, having such a law could lead to the design of complex molecular devices with unique applications not possible with traditional silicon-based technologies. The discussion in this review suggests possible future research directions for deriving unified circuit laws to predict charge transport in complex single-molecule circuits.