This book fills a gap in knowledge between chemistry- and physics-trained researchers about the properties of macroscopic (bulk) material. Although many good textbooks are available on solid-state (or condensed matter) physics, they generally treat simple systems such as simple metals and crystals consisting of atoms. On the other hand, textbooks on solid-state chemistry often avoid descriptions of theoretical background even at the simplest level. This book gives coherent descriptions from intermolecular interaction up to properties of condensed matter ranging from isotropic liquids to molecular crystals. By omitting details of specific systems for which comprehensive monographs are available-on liquid crystals and molecular conductors, for instance-this book highlights the effects of molecular properties, i.e., the presence of the shape and its deformation on the structure and properties of molecular systems.

Autorentext

Kazuya Saito received his D.Sc. from Osaka University, Japan, in 1986, based on his physicochemical research on molecular crystals. His research interests have covered hard and soft condensed matter, including various mesophases. After holding tenured positions at Tokyo Metropolitan University and Osaka University, he has been a Professor in the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences at the University of Tsukuba since 2004 and is currently the Dean. He has published more than 280 articles in internationally renowned journals such as The Journal of Physical Chemistry B and The Journal of Chemical Physics. He is one of the most active researchers of materials utilizing thermal techniques and has edited English and Japanese books in this field. He has more than 30 years of teaching experience at major universities in Japan, including the Open University of Japan.

Inhalt

1. Molecule and Intermolecular Interaction.- 2. Phase Transition.- 3. Molecular Liquid.- 4. Molecular Crystal.- 5. Lattice Dynamics of Molecular Crystal.- 6. Melting of Molecular Crystal.- 7. Liquid Crystal.- 8. Molecular Glass.- 9. Molecular Flexibility and Material Property.- 10. Importance of Molecular Crystals.