Molecular Balances as Physical Organic Chemistry Tools to Quantify Non-Covalent Interactions

Abstract

Non-covalent interactions are present in numerous synthetic and biological systems, playing an essential role in vital life processes, such as the stabilization of proteins’ structures or reversible binding in substrate-receptor complexes. Their study is relevant but faces challenges due to its inherent weak nature. In this context, molecular balances (MBs) are one of the most efficient physical organic chemistry tools to quantify non-covalent interactions, bringing beneficial knowledge regarding their nature and strength. Herein, we report an overview and critical discussion of recent studies related to various MBs in the quantification of a collection of non-covalent interactions, covering from the well-known aryl • • • aryl and CH • • • aryl interaction to the newest fullerene • • • aryl and chalcogen • • • chalcogen interactions.