Droplets retain crystal-like structure while sliding on vertical substrate

A picture of a water droplet

Source: © Getty Images

Surprising properties of soft material may have significant impact on polymer physics

Researchers in Japan have observed the spontaneous self-assembly of organic molecules into macroscopic droplets with three-dimensional structural integrity like a crystal. When placed on a vertical substrate, these droplets then slid down like a fluid, while undergoing clockwise or anti-clockwise rotation depending on the chirality of their molecular components.