When two or more molecules join together to form a larger complex, we call this new structure a molecular aggregate. This term is relevant in many areas of chemistry and biology. Understanding molecular aggregates is essential because they often exhibit new and useful properties that individual molecules do not have on their own.
The formation of a molecular aggregate can happen through different types of interactions, like:
- Hydrogen bonding
- Van der Waals forces
- Covalent bonds
These interactions help stabilize the new structure, which might have practical applications, such as in drug delivery systems, where the aggregate can transport medicine to specific parts of the body. Molecular aggregates make a large impact on material science and nanotechnology by contributing to the development of new, advanced materials with novel properties.