The Laws of Thermodynamics Tell You What Is and What Is Not Possible

Avelino Corma, the distinguished research chemist explains why scientific discovery is difficult. He then explains how ‘molecular recognition’ is achieved in nanochemistry, how molecular design and creating nanoreactors with zeolites is carried out in the laboratory to trap nanoparticles and make them react selectively, and what is meant by the ‘sociology of nanoparticles’. The relationship of chemistry with brain function or genome evolution is also considered. He then reflects on the role of chemistry from ancient times, when the discovery and synthesis of ammonia enabled the development of agriculture and societies, to the world as we know it today. The reason why chemistry is a fundamental discipline for balancing our ‘energy basket’ is also discussed, particularly with regard to achieving sustainable development of our planet.