Symmetry and Structure

A unique, pictorially based introduction to group theory, emphasizing concepts and applications. The text develops molecular symmetry and molecular electronic structure without the use of complex matrix algebra, instead using chemical topics, such as bonding, as vehicles for the group theory. Essential mathematical aspects are treated in the book's five extensive appendixes, which serve as a self-contained treatment of mathematical group theory.

The Third Edition of Symmetry and Structure: Readable Group Theory for Chemists builds on the foundation of the second edition presenting all aspects of group theory relevant to chemists. By using a diagrammatical approach and demonstrating the physical principles involved in understanding group theory the book provides a non-mathematical, yet thorough, treatment of this important topic.

This new edition has been fully revised and updated to enhance its accessibility.  It focuses on the applications and concepts of group theory, rather than the detailed mathematics associated with the subject. The mathematical appendix has been written at an accessible level and character tables have been given a pictorial interpretation in order to offer a deeper insight into the nature of irreducible representations.

• pictorial representation of character tables

• large number of diagrams and tables for ease of reading and to enhance student understanding

• problems and summaries included in each chapter

• all the applications of group theory covered are applied to the water molecule initially to enable greater student understanding

important topics normally regarded as ‘advanced’, such as complex characters, spherical symmetry, double groups (odd-electron systems), spin-orbit coupling and space groups are presented in a readable but insightful manner