Gerhard Herzberg: An Illustrious Life in Science

By Boris Stoicheff

A biography of one of the most influential scientists in the twentieth century.

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."

From the Prologue:
"It was the afternoon of November 2, 1971, and Gerhard Herzberg was sitting on the Moscow Express wondering about the delay in leaving the Leningard Station. He had been brought to the train on this cold and damp day with much fanfare by scientific colleagues of Leningrad University. They carried his bags, saw him settled comfortably at a reserved window seat, and waved cheerfully as the "All aboard" sounded. However, the train remained motionless, and restless passengers continually checked their watches. He became aware of some commotion on the platform as a burly figure was hurriedly guided by a conductor, gesturing to Herzberg's car and cabin. In the next moment Herzberg was being addressed by a breathless man who removed his fur hat and stood at attention. "Professor Herzberg, I am the Secretary of the Soviet Academy of Science, and I have the honour to confirm that you have been awarded the Nobel Prize in physics." With these words, the Secretary shook hands and quickly stepped off the train as it began moving."

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0660187574
• ISBN13: 9780660187570
• Release Date: October 2002
• Publisher: McGill-Queen's University Press
• Length: 482 Pages
• Weight: 1.90 lbs.