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<p>The Curie principle states that the symmetry of an effect must match that of its cause. How then can a scalar energy input give rise to directional motion? Ratchet mechanisms resolve this question by combining structural asymmetry with energy input. This Perspective article examines the origin of directionality in nonequilibrium pumped systems using a simple isomerization reaction, A ⇄ B, as a model. Optically driven systems follow Einstein’s law of light absorption and emission, and directionality can follow from an exergonic power-stroke. Ground-state ratchets are governed by the principle of microscopic reversibility, originally termed the law of entire equilibrium by Gilbert Lewis, and derive directionality from kinetic asymmetry, not from a power-stroke.</p>

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Interpreting molecular ratchets, directionality, and kinetic asymmetry through the work of Curie, Einstein, and Lewis

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  • 发表日期：

    2025年9月8日

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  • Raymond Dean Astumian

摘要

The Curie principle states that the symmetry of an effect must match that of its cause. How then can a scalar energy input give rise to directional motion? Ratchet mechanisms resolve this question by combining structural asymmetry with energy input. This Perspective article examines the origin of directionality in nonequilibrium pumped systems using a simple isomerization reaction, A ⇄ B, as a model. Optically driven systems follow Einstein’s law of light absorption and emission, and directionality can follow from an exergonic power-stroke. Ground-state ratchets are governed by the principle of microscopic reversibility, originally termed the law of entire equilibrium by Gilbert Lewis, and derive directionality from kinetic asymmetry, not from a power-stroke.