CHAPTER 5: Solution-Phase Measurements of Aromatic Interactions

This chapter provides an overview of the current literature on the quantitative measurement and study of non-covalent interactions involving aromatic rings in solution. Due to the weak nature of these interactions, quantitative analyses are often carried out in the context of a specially designed model system. Based on their molecular structures and working mechanisms, these model systems can be categorized into four general types: bimolecular thermodynamic, bimolecular kinetic, unimolecular thermodynamic, and unimolecular kinetic. Selected examples from the literature are presented to illustrate how each of these experimental strategies are implemented with a focus on the advantages and possible limitations of each type of model system. The goal is to help the reader better interpret the results and to guide design choices in the development of new systems to study aromatic interactions in solution.