In this superb topology text, the readers not only learn about knot theory, 3-dimensional manifolds, and the topology of embedded graphs, but also their role in understanding molecular structures. Most results described in the text are motivated by the questions of chemists or molecular biologists, though they often go beyond answering the original question asked. No specific mathematical or chemical prerequisites are required. The text is enhanced by nearly 200 illustrations and 100 exercises. With this fascinating book, undergraduate mathematics students escape the world of pure abstract theory and enter that of real molecules, while chemists and biologists find simple and clear but rigorous definitions of mathematical concepts they handle intuitively in their work.
1. Stereochemical topology; 2. Detecting chirality; 3. Chiral moebius ladders and related molecular graphs; 4. Different types of chirality and achirality; 5. Embeddings of complete graphs in 3-space; 6. Rigid and non-rigid symmetries of graphs in 3-space; 7. Topology of DNA.
"Well-written, well-organized and a pleasure to read, this book is full of interesting results, illustrated with line diagrams wherever needed. Every mathematician or chemist interested in the notions of chirality and symmetry should have a copy within easy reach." American Scientist
This is a very useful text for the purpose stated...This handy book should provide a helpful start for either biochemists or topologists who want a basic introduction to the subject." Mathematical Reviews