ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we will consider optical rotation (OR), circular dichroism (CD), and circular difference Raman scattering, which are three different phenomena that result from the interaction of circularly polarized visible or infrared light with chiral molecules. An in-depth treatment of the underlining phenomena requires signicant quantum mechanical and mathematical background. The goal of this chapter is to provide easy-to-follow arguments for beginning researchers and the expressions needed to progress to the next chapter. A good description of these topics can also be found in the literature (Barron 2004; Charney 1985; Fitts 1974; Polavarapu 1998; Tinoco and Cantor 1970). The readers with a preference to avoid the equations may skip to the end of this chapter where a brief summary of the important results is provided. Readers interested in quantum chemical formulations can nd detailed information in Chapter 4.
