Symmetry and Spectroscopy: An Introduction to Vibrational and Electronic Spectroscopy

Book Details

• Author: Daniel C Harris

• Publisher: HarperCollins

• Language: English

• Edition: Revised ed.

• ISBN: 9780486661445

• Pages: 576

• Cover: Paperback (Illustrations)

• Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 1.3 inches

About The Book

"Introduction to Vibrational and Electronic Spectroscopy" by Daniel C. Harris is an ideal text for students looking to gain a solid foundation in the fields of vibrational and electronic spectroscopy. Written in an accessible and informal style, this revised edition presents complex material in a clear, digestible manner, focusing on both theory and real-world applications.

The text is structured into five comprehensive chapters, each dedicated to an essential aspect of spectroscopy and group theory. Topics covered include the fundamentals of group theory, the qualitative aspects of quantum mechanics, vibrational spectroscopy, molecular orbital theory, and electronic spectroscopy. The primary aim is to introduce these subjects without assuming an extensive background in these areas, making it approachable for newcomers.

One of the standout features of this book is its consistent use of experimental results to illustrate key concepts. This hands-on approach helps solidify understanding and allows students to relate theory directly to practice. The chapters are peppered with a large number of problems designed to test and deepen the reader's grasp of the material. Solutions to these problems, including detailed explanations, are provided in an appendix, making the book an excellent self-study tool.

Harris’s approach also emphasizes the significance of vibrational and electronic spectra, with important sections dedicated to Raman spectroscopy, photoelectron spectroscopy, vibronic analysis, and transition metal complexes. The wealth of helpful figures and line drawings further supports the text, ensuring that students not only read but also visualize the concepts being discussed.

Ideal for chemistry students, this book provides a firm introduction to the spectroscopic analysis of molecules and lays the groundwork for further studies in related areas of chemistry.