Electron Diffraction Studies of Photoswitchable Molecules

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A closer look at ring opening: Electron diffraction studies of photoswitchable molecules
We use a switch to turn lights off and on; however, light can also act as a switch itself, for example when molecules change their structure upon irradiation. Photoswitchable molecules are potentially interesting for use in holographic data storage, as molecular switches for nanomachines, or for switching biological functions in the biosciences. In order to tailor these molecules for different applications, it is necessary to have a comprehensive understanding of the underlying reaction mechanisms.