When Topology Meets Chemistry
A Topological Look at Molecular Chirality

In this superb topology text, the readers not only learn about knot theory, 3-dimensional manifolds, and the topology of embedded graphs, but also their role in understanding molecular structures. Most results described in the text are motivated by the questions of chemists or molecular biologists, though they often go beyond answering the original question asked. No specific mathematical or chemical prerequisites are required. The text is enhanced by nearly 200 illustrations and 100 exercises. With this fascinating book, undergraduate mathematics students escape the world of pure abstract theory and enter that of real molecules, while chemists and biologists find simple and clear but rigorous definitions of mathematical concepts they handle intuitively in their work.

Reviews & endorsements

"Well-written, well-organized and a pleasure to read, this book is full of interesting results, illustrated with line diagrams wherever needed. Every mathematician or chemist interested in the notions of chirality and symmetry should have a copy within easy reach." American Scientist

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Product details

• Date Published: July 2000
• format: Paperback
• isbn: 9780521664820
• length: 256 pages
• copublisher: The Mathematical Association of America

• dimensions: 229 x 152 x 15 mm
• weight: 0.38kg
• contains: 180 b/w illus. 100 exercises
• availability: Available