The Theory of Atomic Spectra

by E. U. Condon, G. H. Shortley

Overview

Condon and Shortley has become the standard comprehensive work on the theory of atomic spectra. The first two chapters contain a brief historical introduction and an exposition of quantum mechanics along the lines formulated by Dirac. Then follow sixteen chapters devoted to a unified, logical deduction of the structure of the spectra of atoms from quantum mechanical principles. The theory is given in full detail and the results are amply documented with comparisons with experimental observations. When first published, a reviewer in Nature said that 'Its power and thoroughness leave the general impression of a work of the first rank, which successfully unifies the existing state of our knowledge, and will prove for many years a starting point for further researches and an inspiration to those who may undertake them'. Subsequent reviewers have amply confirmed these views. Science in 1952 commented that it 'has served half a generation and as a guide in further detailed research', and Reviews of Modern Physics in 1957 that this 'monumental book … continues to be the most comprehensive account of our understanding of atomic spectra - the fruit of several decades' intensive study by a great number of physicists of all countries'.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521092098
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	01/02/1935
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	460
Sales rank:	963,650
Product dimensions:	6.02(w) x 9.02(h) x 1.18(d)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction; 2. The quantum mechanical method; 3. Angular momentum; 4. The theory of radiation; 5. One-electron spectra; 6. The central-field approximation; 7. The Russell-Saunders case: energy levels; 8. The Russell-Saunders case: eigenfunctions; 9. The Russell-Saunders case: line strengths; 10. Coupling; 11. Intermediate coupling; 12. Transformations in the theory of complex spectra; 13. Configurations containing almost closed shells. X-rays; 14. Central fields; 15. Configuration interaction; 16. The Zeeman effect; 17. The Stark effect; 18. The nucleus in atomic spectra; Appendix. Universal constants and natural atomic units.