A synthetic molecule is a molecule that is not found in nature and is created by man. Synthetic molecules can be created for a variety of purposes, such as to mimic a naturally occurring molecule, to create a new function or to improve upon an existing one. There are many different ways to create synthetic molecules, including chemical synthesis, DNA synthesis and enzymatic synthesis.
Chemical synthesis is the most common method used to create synthetic molecules. In this process, individual atoms are combined to form the desired molecule. This can be done using various methods, such as organic synthesis (the combining of carbon-based molecules), inorganic synthesis (the combining of non-carbon based molecules) or polymerization (the combining of small molecules into larger ones). DNA synthesis involves the use of enzymes to synthesize DNA from its constituent nucleotides. Enzymatic synthesis uses enzymes to catalyze the reactions needed to create the desired molecule.
The properties of synthetic molecules can be tuned by changing their structure. For example, by changing the order in which atoms are bonded together, it is possible to change the shape of the molecule and thus its properties. Additionally, by adding or removing functional groups from a molecule, it is possible to alter its reactivity. Functional groups are groups of atoms that have a specific chemical function; examples include hydroxyl (-OH), carbonyl (C=O) and amine (NH2). By changing the functional groups on a molecule, it is possible thus change how it interacts with other molecules around it.
Synthetic molecules have numerous applications in industry and medicine. For example, many pharmaceuticals are made using synthetic organic chemistry techniques; these include aspirin, ibuprofen and paracetamol . In addition , plastics such as polyethylene and PVC are made up of large chains of synthetic monomers . Polymers are also used in clothing fabrics , such as nylon and polyester . Finally , some fuels , such as petrol and diesel , contain synthetic additives that improve their performance .