Caption

Computerised molecular modelling. A scientist using a computer to manipulate a graphic model of a molecule. The structure of the molecule is seen in the 'skeleton' of dots and lines. Around this has been displayed the electrostatic potential on the molecule's 'surface', the colours representing the electrostatic charge at each point. A knowledge of the distribution of electrostatic charge across the molecule allows the scientist to predict and design reactions with various functional groups of atoms to produce new molecules. This is an increasingly important part of drug design and the study of proteins.