Synopses & Reviews
Gerhard Herzberg (1904-1999), winner of the 1971 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, is considered the founder of molecular spectroscopy. Born and educated in Germany, he started his seven decades of research just as the discovery of quantum mechanics began unraveling the mysteries of the microscopic world. He chose to study spectroscopy, the light emitted and absorbed by atoms and molecules, eventually moving to Canada where he established the spectroscopy laboratory for the National Research Council. His Ottawa laboratory became a mecca for generations of young scientists from around the world. There Herzberg systematized the knowledge of the field in the classic trilogy Molecular Spectra and Molecular Structure, Atomic Spectra, and Atomic Structure. In awarding the Nobel Prize the Swedish Academy said, "It's quite exceptional in the field of science that a single individual, however distinguished, can be a leader of a whole area of research of general importance."
Synopsis
Gerhard Herzberg was one of Canada's greatest scientist and Nobel Prize winners. He began his research in Germany at a time when the new quantum mechanics was just beginning to unravel the mysteries of the microscopic world. This biography will inform a wider audience about this great man, his work and his humanity.
Synopsis
Gerhard Herzberg (1904-1999) was one of the greatest scientists of the last century. He was born and educated in Germany and started his research just as the exciting discovery of quantum mechanics began unravelling the mysteries of the microscopic world. Herzberg chose to study spectroscopy, the light emitted and absorbed by atoms and molecules, which has played a central role in the development of modern science. His succession of notable experimental and theoretical results during seven decades of active research led to his recognition as the founder of molecular spectroscopy. For his many accomplishments, Herzberg was awarded the 1971 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. This biography will inform a wider audience about this great man, his work, and his humanity.
Synopsis
A biography of one of the most influential scientists in the twentieth century.
About the Author
Boris Stoicheff belonged to Herzberg's research group at the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) in Ottawa from 1951 to 1964, first as a postdoctoral fellow and then as a staff member. He is renowned for his pioneering contributions to Raman spectroscopy and, later, to non-linear optics. Herzberg himself "appointed" Stoicheff as his biographer in the 1970s.