Molecule and Pi Orbitals (IMAGE) Arizona State University Caption Atoms of a molecule (gray) are shown, with their accompanying pi orbitals (red). As the distance between electrodes is decreased, the pi orbitals can interact with the electron orbitals contained in the gold electrodes -- a process known as lateral coupling. This effect increases electrical conductance through the molecule. Credit The Biodesign Institute Arizona State University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.