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Molecular Symmetry and Group Theory
by Robert L. Carter
Wiley: New York, 1998. 299 pp. ISBN U71-14955-1.
$44.95.
reviewed by Sarah L. Stoll
The new book Molecular Symmetry and Group Theory by R. L. Carter is comprehensive enough for graduate students but accessible enough for undergraduates. This readable text includes a qualitative development of group theory, with applications to bonding and vibrational spectroscopy as well as electronic spectroscopy of transition metal complexes. The introduction to group theory in the first four chapters neatly interweaves basic arguments needed to solve chemical problems in inorganic chemistry. Later chapters on vibrational and electron spectroscopy could be used independently or with connection to other texts.
The organization of the book makes it possible to adapt its use for two levels of students, either undergraduate or graduate (who have not seen group theory). For example, a qualitative procedure for forming SALCs (symmetry adapted linear combinations) and writing MO (molecular orbital) diagrams is outlined in Chapter 4. While this might provide the depth required of an undergraduate course, it also serves...