Photoswitchable double bonds: Synthetic strategies for tunability and versatility

Isomerizations of azo, imine, and alkene groups using light are highly tunable. As such, photoswitches based on these functional groups have become critical components of many responsive molecules and materials. This mini‐review describes recent work focused on controlling various properties of double bond‐based molecular switches, including speed of switching, thermal stability, and wavelength required to initiate switching. Methods used to control structure and function vary, but commonly involve careful probing of the electronic, photochemical, and steric profiles of the molecular switches. Successes and avenues for further investigation will be discussed.