Cutting Edge of Physics : Single-Molecule Junctions

Abstract

Single-molecule junction is a system where single molecule is bridging between two metal electrodes. It is a low dimensional nano material with two metal-molecule interfaces, and thus, we can expect appearance of novel physical properties, which are not observed in bulk systems. Single-molecule junction has also attracted wide attention due to its potential use in molecular electronics devices. In this article, we discuss the effect of metal-molecule contacts on properties of single-molecule junctions, and the interaction between phonon and conduction electron in single-molecule junctions. Finally, we briefly show examples of the application of single-molecule junctions to devices.