Vibrational optical activity as probe for intermolecular interactions

Abstract

A main focus of physical chemistry and related disciplines targets a detailed and fundamental characterization of intermolecular interactions. Interests are manifold and range from gaining experimental evidence for a particular interaction to the theoretical dissection of its exact quantum mechanical origin. In this perspective article, we discuss some recent developments in the field of vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectroscopy, which aim for its application for the characterization of intermolecular interactions of chiral molecules. Following a brief qualitative discussion of theoretical aspects of VCD spectroscopy, we show how the introduction of chirality into suitable model systems can give unprecedented insights into molecular complexes in the solution phase. In particular, we focus on solute–solvent interactions as well as the formation of the active conformation between catalyst and reactant, and also discuss the phenomenon of induced VCD signatures of achiral interaction partners.