Molecular switches are often used to allow a cell to proceed

Molecular switches are often used to allow a cell to proceed down one of two alternative paths. Describe one way in generalized terms how this can occur

Solution

Molecular Switch: A molecular switch usually consists of a single molecule which can shift controllably between two stable states. The trigger used to switch between the states can be an electrical current, a change in temperature or chemical environment, or even light. Main types of molecular switches are: Crown ether switches, Rotaxanes, Photochromic switches, Nanoparticle switches.

One way of working of molecular switches is like photochromic switches. A photochromic switch is a molecule which can be optically switched between two isomers (different structural forms made up of the same atoms) with measurably different optical properties. Tuned laser light can then be used to selectively transform the molecule from one isomer to the other, and the changed property, such as absorption wavelength, luminescence, or optical rotation.