Structural, Supramolecular, Crystal Engineering Insight of (4-Ethyl-9-(phenylsulfonyl)-9H-carbazole-2,3-diyl)bis(phenylmethanone) Derivative

Structural, intermolecular interaction and electronic effects of a novel (4-ethyl-9-(phenylsulfonyl)-9H-carbazole-2,3-diyl)bis(phenyl-methanone) derivatives were systematically investigated through single crystal X-ray diffraction studies, density functional theory (DFT) calculations and the Hirshfeld surface analysis techniques. The compound crystallized with the space group of P21/n in the monoclinic crystal structure. The compound crystallizes in a planar conformation, stabilized by non-covalent interactions like van der Waals forces and C–H···O hydrogen bonds. Hirshfeld surface analysis quantitatively revealed the nature and extent of these supramolecular interactions, providing insight into the crystal packing behaviour. DFT studies were employed to evaluate the molecular orbitals arrangements, energy gap and electrostatic potential of molecules, offering an understanding of the electronic structure and potential reactivity of the titled compound. The experimental and theoretical values were in good agreement, confirming the stability and planarity of the molecule. In addition, the molecular docking studies demonstrated significant binding affinity of the compound towards target proteins of Escherichia coli ThDP–dependent enzyme, indicating promising pharmacological potential. These findings contribute to the growing interest in carbazole-based compounds as multifunctional materials in both medicinal and material chemistry.