The Structure of Molecules

Abstract

WITHIN the past few months there have appeared several papers on band spectra containing results of great theoretical significance. Taken in connexion with the data given in my letter to NATURE of February 13, p. 229, on the energy levels of the carbon monoxide molecule, they appear to indicate a comprehensive analogy between the electronic energy levels of molecules and of atoms. The additional evidence furnished by the rotation and vibration of molecules then makes possible conclusions as to the actual paths of the valence electrons in molecules, and these results may in turn be used as evidence as to the structure of atoms.