Summary

The purpose of this book is to focus attention on crystallographic research on molecular crystals. In recent years, molecular crystals have ceased to be regarded as mere laboratory curiosities, especially since they have begun to make their appearance in the industrial field. This volume consists of three parts comprising six chapters. Part one is devoted to various aspects of the study of crystals. A knowledge of the three-dimensional structure of molecules is absolutely essential in order to understand the nature of chemical bonds and the mechanism and dynamics of reactions. Chapter one deals with the study of molecular structures by X-ray diffraction. This brings out the results that one may expect from the analysis of crystal structures. Recent results concerning molecular conformation and chemical reactivity are also described. By means of numerous examples, chapter two illustrates the importance of studying organic reactions in the solid state. A number of new reactions are also presented. In the future, crystallography may be used to predict crystal structures. Crystal engineering is of the utmost importance in designing new materials.