Quantum Chemical Friction
Jincheng Zhang
Abstract
This paper introduces the concept of Quantum Chemical Friction (QCF), a novel framework for understanding and quantifying friction-like phenomena within molecular systems. Traditionally, friction has been defined within the context of macroscopic mechanics and solid-state interactions. However, this work proposes a fundamentally new approach, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to describe and model frictional resistance arising from the dynamics of electrons within molecular orbitals. We posit that electron movement, specifically the interference and decoherence of wavefunctions within specific orbital layers, directly contributes to what we term Quantum Chemical Friction. This concept is presented as a new mechanism affecting reaction rates and transition states, and it fundamentally alters our understanding of chemical kinetics. The theoretical framework utilizes a modified Schrödinger equation to incorporate orbital layer-specific frictional coefficients, providing a quantitative approach to predicting and controlling frictional effects in chemical reactions. The primary goal is to redefine reaction rates based on this QCF principle, offering a more accurate and nuanced depiction of chemical processes.