ELECTRONTRANSMISSIONTHROUGHMOLECULES ANDMOLECULARINTERFACES

• DOI: 10.1146/annurev.physchem.52.1.681
• Publication Date: 2002-07-27T11:46:15Z
• Authors: Abraham Nitzan
• Keywords: Molecular switch; Dephasing; Molecular Electronics

Electron transmission through molecules and molecular interfaces has been a subject of intensive research due to recent interest in electron-transfer phenomena underlying the operation scanning-tunneling microscope on one hand, properties bridges between conducting leads other. In these processes, traditional view electron transfer donor acceptor species gives rise novel molecule as current-carrying conductor, observables such rates yields are replaced by conductivities, or more generally current-voltage relationships, junctions. Such investigations electrical junctions, which single small assemblies operate conductors, constitute major part active field electronics. this article I review current knowledge understanding field, with particular emphasis theoretical issues. Different approaches computing conduction reviewed, relationships them discussed. Following detailed discussion static-junctions models, our role played inelastic dephasing thermal-relaxation effects is provided. The most important environment for water, water layers reviewed. Finally, brief overbarrier transmission, exemplified photoemission adsorbed low-energy layers, Similarities differences different systems studied