Excited states and photochemistry of organic molecules /

In this work directed to students in physical organic chemistry and organic photochemistry, the approach is nonmathematical and qualitative; only basic organic chemistry, a basic understanding of spectroscopy, and an acquaintance with elementary quantum mechanics is assumed of the reader. The text provides a qualitative introduction to electronic excitation of organic molecules and to electronic spectroscopy, photochemistry, and photophysics. Throughout, potential energy surfaces, bonding theory, and molecular electronic structures are emphasized, as well as recent developments in the role of conical intersections in the understanding of photochemical and photophysical processes. The first chapter presents basic electronic spectroscopy suitable for the nonspecialist. Absorption spectra of the most important organic molecules are discussed in the second chapter, followed by an examination of natural circular dichroism and magnetic circular dichroism. Fundamental concepts of potential energy surfaces, barriers, minima, and funnels are introduced, followed by physical and chemical transformations of excited states: photophysical processes, photochemical reactions in condensed media, and phototransformations of organic molecules. Worked examples taken from recent literature are found throughout. Chapter references; extensively referenced discussions. Upper-division undergraduate; graduate. J. Landesberg; Adelphi University