The Physics and Chemistry of Interstellar Molecular Clouds

The book is an up-to-date, concise presentation of the development of submillimeter-wave and far-infrared astrophysics. The topics range from the large-scale atomic and molecular distribution in the Galaxy and in external galaxies to the frontal properties of molecular clouds and the details of the star-formation process. A chapter on the most recent technical advances in the field illustrates the intimate connection and interplay between scientific advancement and technological capability. The book not only summarizes the advances in the field but also presents important background information, addressing experts and graduate students alike.

Inhalt
From the contents: Galactic Molecular Cloud Distribution.- External Galaxies.- Molecular Cloud Structure.- Photon Dominated Regions.- Interstellar Chemistry.- Star Formation in Molecular Clouds.- Molecular Outflows.- New Instrumentation.- A Theorist's View of Interstellar Chemistry.