Engaging Research

Molecular Movies

Dr Philip Camp's research led to the movie above. Here he explains how the movie was created and the many areas his research benefits.

Imagine being able to watch movies of molecules on the atomic scale! Chemists often draw pictures of molecules moving, rotating, bouncing off each other, and undergoing chemical reactions. But now, using desktop PCs, we can visualise atoms, molecules, nanoparticles, and other chemical filmstars acting out their own life stories. Researchers in the School of Chemistry use computer movies to give them amazing insights on the atomic world.

We use molecular movies to study how magnetic nanoparticles can be used to discover tumours and to deliver drugs in the body, how snake-like polymer molecules can be used to make smooth coatings for new materials, how oil additives can improve the performance and longevity of car engines, and even how microscopic algae protect themselves with coats of armour made of glass! We can study how individual ions in table salt dissolve in water, how liquids boil, and under what conditions liquids freeze... all with molecular resolution!

The more we see, the more we understand. The more we understand, the better we can predict and design new chemicals and new materials for the common good. All we have to do is assemble our ideal cast of chemical characters... and then let the cameras roll.

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