Molecular Vibrations: The Theory of Infrared and Raman Vibrational Spectra (Dover Books on Chemistry) [Paperback]

Edgar Bright Wilson (Author), J.C. Decius (Author), Paul C. Cross (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 1980 | Series: Dover Books on Chemistry

This pedagogical classic and essential reference for anyone engaged in research in molecular spectroscopy focuses on the mathematics involved in detailed vibrational analyses of polyatomic molecules. It leads the reader gradually from application of wave mechanics to potential functions and methods of solving the secular determinant. 16 appendices.

Product Details

• Paperback: 388 pages
• Publisher: Dover Publications (March 1, 1980)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 048663941X
• ISBN-13: 978-0486639413
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.7 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #127,199 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #5 in Books > Professional & Technical > Professional Science > Chemistry > Molecular Chemistry
  • #16 in Books > Professional & Technical > Professional Science > Physics > Nuclear Physics > Atomic & Nuclear Physics
  • #25 in Books > Professional & Technical > Professional Science > Chemistry > Physical & Theoretical > Physical Chemistry

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars very good..., December 5, 2001

By 

"mensah" (Petersburg (Virginia State University), Virginia United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Molecular Vibrations: The Theory of Infrared and Raman Vibrational Spectra (Dover Books on Chemistry) (Paperback)

In this one, Wilson writes definitively, math/scientifically, and with sincerity of purpose. Don't get confused by the word 'theory.' There's as much math in here as Born and Wolf's P of O. The only diffenrence is Wilson's is much more algebra-based. The mathematics (i.e. isomorphs) is 'taught', without breaking the flow, and is not assumed that you know the stuff already--- or can find it somewhere else. This book stands out because there is more science in here than names of scientists, and his references are for real. I would also say it was unique because books with titles like 'Molecular Vibrations' are usually skipped over for titles like 'mechanics' or 'quantum theory.' Spectroscopy was a major advancement in science, and it is good to see it skillfully treated with enlightening clarity.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars 1955 classic, June 28, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: Molecular Vibrations: The Theory of Infrared and Raman Vibrational Spectra (Dover Books on Chemistry) (Paperback)

Reissue of original, which was published in 1955, in the pre-computer age. Solid QM description of vibrating polyatomic molecules, and their interaction with EM radiation. The authors exploit group theory (molecular symmetry) to reduce the calculational work as much as possible. Good introduction to the use of finite groups, e.g. how to exploit the hexagonal symmetry of the benzene molecule.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A MUST HAVE for those dealing with B matrix methods, December 28, 2000

By 

Richard Axor (Brazil) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Molecular Vibrations: The Theory of Infrared and Raman Vibrational Spectra (Dover Books on Chemistry) (Paperback)

This is the original work by E.B.Wilson where the G and F matrix formalism is presented. The G matrix, related to kinetic vibrational energy is built uppon the elements of the B matrix defined from "internal coordinates". Many quantum chemistry software packages use this exact methodology to build normal coordinates. For those working on Quantum Chem Molecular Orbital calculations, this book is a must.