"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."--BOOK JACKET.