Electric-field-mediated chemistry is an emerging topic that is rapidly growing and fanning out in many directions. It involves theoretical and experimental aspects, as well as intense interplay between them, including breakthrough achievements such as the proof-of-principle that a Diels–Alder reaction, which involves two simultaneous C–C bond making events, can be catalysed or inhibited simply by changing the direction of an oriented external-electric field (OEEF). This productive interplay between the theoretical and experimental branches of chemistry is continuing, and gradually defining a new sub-field wherein various sources of electric fields, whether external or built-in and designed, or even surface induced fields (plasmons), are brought to bear on chemical reactions, molecular structures, and nano-systems, leading to control of reactivity, selectivity, chirality, molecular orientations, changes in structure, and in dynamics.
Written by leaders in the field, Effects of Electric Fields on Structure and Reactivity is the first book on this exciting topic. Starting with an overview of the theory behind – and demonstrations of the effect of – electric fields on structure and reactivity, this accessible reference work aims to encourage those new to the field to consider harnessing these effects in their own work. Covering applications and recent theoretical developments, it is a useful resource for theoretical chemists and experimentalists alike.