Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Science

Describes the role of basic science in meeting societal needs and provides examples of societal benefits of atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) science in key areas. This volume highlights the role of lasers to make possible ultraprecise atomic clocks, structural engineering at the atomic level and approaches to the study of DNA.

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This book responds to the call for a clear description of the role of basic science in meeting societal needs. It gives examples of societal benefits of atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) science in a number of key areas, including industrial technology, information technology, energy, global change, defense, health and medical technology, space technology, and transportation.


This volume highlights the role of lasers in trapping, cooling, and manipulating individual atoms and molecules to make possible ultraprecise atomic clocks, structural engineering at the atomic level (nanotechnology), and new approaches to the study of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). AMO science is shown to be a field that is both an intellectually important basic science and a powerful enabling science that supports many other areas of science and technology.

Table of Contents


Front Matter
Executive Summary
Part I Overview
Part II Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Science: Today and Tomorrow
1 Case Studies in AMO Science
2 Recent Major Advances and Opportunities in AMO Science and Applications to the Needs of Society
3 Education and Human Resources
4 Funding and Infrastructure for Research and Development in AMO Science
5 Economic Impact of AMO Science
6 International Perspectives in AMO Science
Appendixes
A Nobel Prizes Awarded in AMO Science Since 1964
B Impact of AMO Science
C Citation Analysis
D Survey of AMO Scientists