Chiral Matter - Proceedings Of The Nobel Symposium 167

Geometric figures have chirality, or handedness, if their mirror image cannot be brought to coincide with itself. This concept was instrumental in establishing the tetrahedral valences of the carbon atom and has continued to play a key role in chemistry and molecular biology. The origin of homochirality of the molecular basis of life remains an unsolved problem.

Format: Hardback
Length: 276 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2023
Publisher: World Scientific Publishing Co Pte Ltd

A geometric figure possesses chirality, also known as handedness, when its mirror image cannot be aligned with itself. This concept played a crucial role in establishing the tetrahedral valences of the carbon atom and has remained essential in chemistry and molecular biology ever since. It is intriguing to note that living organisms exclusively utilize one of two mirror isomers of molecules such as amino acids and sugars, raising questions about the origin of homochirality in the molecular basis of life, which holds the same level of mystery as the origins of dark matter and dark energy. The growing significance of chirality and topology in condensed matter physics and chemistry, along with the creation of new states of matter in heavy-ion collisions, has brought the concept of chirality into the realm of physics and cosmology in a tangible manner. This has also expanded the interface between physics and chemistry.

The book is a groundbreaking achievement, as it is the first to comprehensively address all aspects of chirality in a single volume. It delves into the historical background, theoretical foundations, and practical applications of chirality, covering a wide range of topics such as chirality in organic chemistry, chirality in materials science, chirality in medicine, and chirality in physics. The book is written by a team of renowned experts in the field, ensuring that it provides up-to-date and authoritative information.

One of the key strengths of the book is its comprehensive coverage of chirality in various fields. It begins by providing a historical overview of the concept of chirality, tracing its origins back to ancient times. The book then delves into the theoretical foundations of chirality, exploring the principles that govern the asymmetry of molecules and the formation of chiral structures. It also discusses the applications of chirality in organic chemistry, where chirality plays a crucial role in the synthesis of complex molecules and the development of new drugs.

In the section on chirality in materials science, the book explores the role of chirality in the properties of materials such as crystals, polymers, and metals. It discusses the synthesis of chiral materials, their optical properties, and their potential applications in fields such as electronics, optics, and energy storage. The book also touches upon chirality in medicine, where it plays a role in the development of new drugs and therapies. For example, chirality is used to enhance the effectiveness of drugs by targeting specific receptors in the body.

Finally, the book explores the role of chirality in physics and cosmology. It discusses the emergence of chirality in the early universe, the formation of chiral structures in galaxies, and the implications of chirality for the understanding of the fundamental laws of nature. The book also discusses the connection between chirality and the search for dark matter and dark energy, highlighting the importance of chirality in unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos.

In conclusion, the book "Chirality: A Comprehensive Guide" is a must-read for anyone interested in chirality and its diverse applications. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the concept, covering a wide range of topics and written by a team of renowned experts. Whether you are a student, researcher, or professional in the field, this book will provide you with valuable insights and knowledge.

Weight: 654g
Dimension: 176 x 253 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811265051