Commentary: Chemical dynamics from the gas‐phase to surfaces

Abstract

A trio of outstanding physical chemists, Daniel Auerbach, John Tully, andAlecWodtke, has produced a superb reviewof the field of chemical dynamics.1 They stress “linkages between gas phase and surface chemical dynamics . . . a fruitful interplay of theory and experiment . . . which may often seem impenetrably complex and challenging.” Their review offers a sparkling table of contents with 48 entries, along with references to congenial articles and books, totaling 493 items. They worked withmultifaceted exuberance, intrepid questing, and zestful spirit. Back in 1955, molecular beam study of chemical dynamics was “a lunatic fringe.” However, a precious gem by Simplicius of Cilicia (490– 560) dating to even earlier times provided its vivid anticipation2: