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Molecules in optical, electric, and magnetic fields: a personal perspective
1Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom.
Annual Review of Physical Chemistry
|March 12, 2004
Summary
Physical and theoretical chemistry now rely on quantum and statistical mechanics. Measuring molecular optical, electric, and magnetic properties reveals insights into matter, intermolecular forces, and molecular biology.
Area of Science:
- Physical chemistry
- Theoretical chemistry
- Quantum mechanics
- Statistical mechanics
Background:
- Over 50 years, physical and theoretical chemistry evolved from qualitative to quantitative disciplines.
- Modern chemistry is grounded in quantum and statistical mechanics principles.
- Understanding molecular properties is key to comprehending the nature of matter.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the nature of matter by measuring and interpreting molecular properties.
- To investigate charge and current distributions within molecules.
- To understand intermolecular forces, hydrogen bonding, and molecular biology.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of optical properties of molecules.
- Measurement of electric properties of molecules.
- Measurement of magnetic properties of molecules.
Main Results:
- Molecular properties provide insights into charge and current distributions.
- These properties are fundamental to electro-optics, magneto-optics, and nonlinear optics.
- Understanding these properties aids in elucidating intermolecular forces and hydrogen bonds.
Conclusions:
- The study of molecular properties offers a robust method for understanding the fundamental nature of matter.
- Intermolecular forces and hydrogen bonding are crucial areas of ongoing research.
- Molecular properties are essential for advancements in various fields, including molecular biology.
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