Encyclopaedia Of Photochemistry

Photochemistry, a sub-discipline of chemistry, is the study of chemical reactions that proceed with the absorption of light by atoms or molecules. Everyday examples include photosynthesis, the degradation of plastics and the formation of vitamin D with sunlight. The efficiency with which a given photochemical process occurs is given by its Quantum Yield. Since many photochemical reactions are complex, and may compete with unproductive energy loss, the quantum yield is usually specified for a particular event. The energy that is absorbed from light can result in photochemical changes in the absorbing molecule, or in an adjacent molecule (e.g., photosensitization). The energy can also be given off as heat, or as lower energy light, i.e., fluorescence or phosphorescence, in order to return the molecule to its ground state. The book will be an indispensable source for all professionals, researchers and students in this subject and for anyone working in the related areas for acquiring an up-to-date overviews.