In 1897, J. J. Thompson "discovered" the electron. Around the same time, Mikhail Semenovich Tswett presented a lecture on his novel method of dynamic adsorption analysis, soon known as chromatography. These achievements laid the groundwork for James Lovelock, who fifty years later observed the perturbation of ion currents by the reactions of thermal electrons with molecules. Lovelock's invention of the Electron Capture Detector (ECD) created an instrument for measuring the properties of these compounds and the reactions involved.

Today, with the ECD in widespread use and many molecular affinities and rate constants for thermal electron attachment measured, it is an appropriate time to review the techniques for studying the reactions of thermal electrons with molecules. The Electron Capture Detector and the Study of Reactions with Thermal Electrons provides just such a timely review, as well as a thorough evaluation of the results attained thus far. In addition, this text:
* Summarizes other methods for studying reactions of thermal electrons with molecules
* Reviews electron affinities and thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of atoms, small molecules, and large organic molecules obtained using various techniques
* Describes ECD applications in analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry
* Provides an Appendix with electron affinities in tabular form

With coverage ranging from the history of the electron to definitions and nomenclature, experimental procedures, and modern applications, the scope of this text is greater than any other available book on the subject of negative ions. Professionals and graduate students in analytical, physical, and environmental chemistry can now turn to The Electron Capture Detector and the Study of Reactions with Thermal Electrons for a comprehensive guide to the theory and practice of ECD.