| Citation | Distinguished for his contributions to experimental and theoretical spectroscopy, particularly the electronic spectroscopy of small molecules. His experimental study of the spectrum of the NCO radical first exemplified Renner's theory of vibronic interaction in linear triatomic molecules. His penetrating insight into the vibronic properties of small molecules has led to the development of new models, and hence to the analyses of a number of complex spectra, especially of open-shell dihydrides. In obtaining and analysing high-resolution spectra of the carbon monoxide flame bands he was able to establish that these represented an electronic transition of CO2, and thus solve a long-standing problem. His recent study of energy transfer using dye-laser excitation has demonstrated the importance of valence forces in rotationally inelastic collisions between open-shell partners. |