American-German Duo Win Chemistry Nobel For 'Greatest Benefit To Humankind'
First developed in the early 2000s, organic catalysts have developed tremendously over the last two decades. According to the Nobel Prize press release, both Benjamin List and David MacMillan are considered pioneers in the field and will bring "greatest benefit to humankind".
The 2021 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to laureates Benjamin List and David MacMillan for their groundbreaking tool called "organocatalysis".
A new way to build molecules, organocatalysis is a gamechanger in the field of chemistry. Earlier, reserachers believed that two types of catalysts existed - metals and enzymes. With the development of organocatalysis, Benjamin List and David MacMillan have developed a third type of catalyst.
Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences
Built on small organic molecules, organocatalysis takes construction of molecules in chemistry to a level unheard of earlier.
BREAKING NEWS:
¡ª The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 6, 2021
The 2021 #NobelPrize in Chemistry has been awarded to Benjamin List and David W.C. MacMillan ¡°for the development of asymmetric organocatalysis.¡± pic.twitter.com/SzTJ2Chtge
With this new tool, chemistry is greener and smarter. Using organocatalysis, scientists will be able to construct a variety of things including new pharmaceuticals to molecules that may be able to capture light in solar cells, according to the Nobel Prize 2021 Chemistry press release.
Also read: Nobel Prize In Physics Awarded To Scientists For Earth¡¯s Climate Breakthrough
Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences
What is a catalyst?
A catalyst is anything that triggers another process. In cars, catalysts transform toxic substances that exist in exhaust fumes into harmless molecules. These substances control and guide chemical processes without becoming part of the final product. With "asymmetric organocatalysis".
Learn more about #PrincetonU professor David MacMillan's #NobelPrize winning work, watch as he explains catalysis. pic.twitter.com/TuL4N1fDQl
¡ª Princeton University (@Princeton) October 6, 2021
With organic catalysts, environment friendly and cheap processes may be used to build on molecules.
Also Read: Incredible Women Nobel Prize Winners Who Advanced Our Science Knowledge
Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences
First developed in the early 2000s, organic catalysts have developed tremendously over the last two decades. According to the Nobel Prize press release, both Benjamin List and David MacMillan are considered pioneers in the field and will bring "greatest benefit to humankind".
The discovery ¨C asymmetric organocatalysis ¨C being awarded the 2021 #NobelPrize in Chemistry has taken molecular construction to an entirely new level. It has not only made chemistry greener, but also made it much easier to produce asymmetric molecules. pic.twitter.com/TsgSmgEmqb
¡ª The Nobel Prize (@NobelPrize) October 6, 2021
What do you think about this marvellous feat in the field of chemistry and the Nobel Prize 2021 winners? Let us know in the comments below.
For the latest in the world of science and technology, keep reading Indiatimes.com.
I live for all-things-technology - gadgets, novel climate solutions, and startups that are changing the game. In my leisurely hours, you can find me binge watching science fiction films, writing poetry, or dancing to pop anthems.
Read More
