Azobenzene

Azobenzene is an organic compound composed of two connected benzene rings linked by a nitrogen-nitrogen double bond. It has the unique ability to switch between two shapes—called isomers—when exposed to light. In one form (cis), the molecule is bent; in the other (trans), it is straight. This shape change makes azobenzene useful in light-responsive materials and molecular devices, as it can control properties like color, flow, or structure when illuminated. Its reversible transformation under light has potential applications in smart coatings, drug delivery systems, and molecular switches.