This book provides a comprehensive study of the symmetry and geometry of crystals and molecules, starting from first principles. The pre-knowledge assumed is mathematics and physical science to about A-level; additional mathematical topics are discussed in appendices. It is copiously illustrated, including many stereoviews, with instructions both for stereoviewing and for constructing a stereoviewer. Problems for each chapter are provided, with fully worked tutorial solutions. A suite of associated computer programs has been devised and placed on-line, for assisting both the study of the text and the solutions of the problems. The programs are easily executed, and instructions are provided in the text and on the monitor screen. The applicability of symmetry in everyday life as well as in science is stressed. Point groups and space groups are first discussed and derived in a semi-analytical manner, and later by use of group theory. The basic principles of group theory are discussed, together with applications to symmetry, chemical bonding and aspects of vibrations of molecules and crystals. The book is addressed to those studying the physical sciences and meeting the subject for the first time, and it brings the reader to a level of appreciation for the definitive works produced by the International Union of Crystallography, such as the International Tables for X-ray Crystallography, Vol 1 (1965) and the International Tables for Crystallography, Vol A (2006).

About the Author
Dr Mark Ladd DSc (Lond), FRSC, FInstP Formerly, Head of Chemical Physics, University of Surrey

Reviews
The content is comprehensive, covering symmetry operations, stereographic projection, application to X-ray diffraction, group theory, as well as spectroscopy ... the book shines with instructional discussions of several problem sets ... I find reason to recommend the book ... I am glad to see it on my bookshelf * Angewandte Chemie International Edition, *
This book successfully combines a thorough treatment of molecular and crystalline symmetry with a simple and informal writing style. By means of familiar examples the author helps to provide the reader with those conceptual tools necessary for the development of a clear understanding of what are often regarded as 'difficult' topics. * Christopher Hammond, University of Leeds *
This book should tell you everything you need to know about crystal and molecular symmetry. Ladd adopts an integrated approach so that the relationships between crystal symmetry, molecular symmetry and features of chemical interest are maintained and reinforced. The theoretical aspects of bonding and symmetry are also well represented, as are symmetry-dependent physical properties and the applications of group theory. The comprehensive coverage will make this book a valuable resource for a broad range of readers. * Alexander Blake, School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham *
I marvel at the comprehensive detail and rigour ... I see this book becoming essential reading, if not prescribed for intensive study. * Jan Boeyens, University of Pretoria *
The book really shines, with clear and precise definitions given for point groups, lattices and space groups - ideal reading for any budding crystallographer who wonders what all those columns in the International tables for crystallography are for. * Chemistry World *



Book Information
ISBN 9780199670888
Author Mark Ladd
Format Hardback
Page Count 462
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 1g
Dimensions(mm) 248mm * 195mm * 27mm