ABSTRACT: We propose a design for a class of molecular
rotors fixed to a semiconductor surface, induced by a
moderately intense, linearly polarized laser pulse. The rotor
consists of an organic molecule possessing a polarizable
headgroup that is attached via a linear component to the
surface. The polarization direction in parallel to the surface
plane is determined so as to maximize the torque experienced
by the molecular headgroup and, hence, the duration of the
ensuing rotation, while also controlling the sense of rotation.
We find that the molecule continues to rotate for many
rotational periods after the laser pulse turns off, before multiple
scattering by the potential barrier results in dephasing.