We introduce some basic concepts for designer molecules with functional unitswhich are driven by entropic rather than energetic forces. This idea profitsfrom the mechanically interlocked nature of topological molecules such ascatenanes and rotaxanes, which allows for mobile elements whose accessibleconfiguration space gives rise to entropic intramolecular forces. Suchentropy-driven designer molecules open the possibility for externallycontrollable functional molecules and nanomechanical devices.
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