By applying single-molecule imaging technique in free solution, we visually observed polymer chains break apart when they collide with each other just because of their Brownian motion. The oxidation scission reaction is catalyzed by the leverage effect, analogous to breaking a stiff wooden stick over the knee. Our surprising results suggest that new catalysts could be designed with the idea of stiff molecules working as ‘knives’ and ‘leverages’ breaking chemical bonds. We believe that our work opens up the possibility of monitoring chemical processes in solution at the single-molecule level.
- Yuxi Tian
- Marina V Kuzimenkova
- Ivan G Scheblykin
