This book presents to students of introductory physical chemistry the basic
principles of symmetry and group theory, and their use in describing and
predicting molecular structure and spectra. Symmetry is a crucial determinant
of many chemical phenomena, and group theory is the grammar of the language of
symmetry. In many cases, simple calculations suffice to explain why certain
triatomic molecules are linear and others bent, or why certain transitions do
not appear in molecular spectra. In this book, the aim is understanding the
ideas, and skills in application of the principles, rather than mathematical
rigour. The book is intended as a supplement for students who want to follow up
an interest in and recognition of the importance of group theory, and who seek
a short and mathematically relatively undemanding introduction. Exercises
appearing throughout the text are integrated with the presentation to give
readers confidence in their assimilation of the material.
