2007-9-11

Rudolph A. Marcus,1923-
A chemist of USA
Professor at California Institute of Technology

In 1992, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for creation and development of the electron transfer theory.

Using mathematical ways, Marcus combines the theoretical amount of electron transfer with experiments, and provides experimental chemists with powerful theoretical tools. During the ten years after raising the theory of electron transfer, he develops and perfects this theory gradually. His theory has been widely used in photosynthesis of green plants and oxidation reduction of protein as well as other processes, playing a very important role in environmental protection and new energy development.

Marcus's study relates to various aspects of chemical reaction rate. The theory of electron transfer put forward by him forms a standard theory in this regard. He has also made innovative contributions to other research fields, and recently is carrying out the research on large-scale independent isotope effect of stratospheric ozone and earliest minerals of the solar system.

Analogue image of electron transfer in energid

Sketch of chemical reaction