On the theory of optical activity

The scattering matrix techniques developed in a previous series of papers (Atkins & Barron 1968a, b) are applied to the problem of formulating a theory of optical activity on the basis of Kirkwood’s independent group model. We restrict ourselves to the case of non-degenerate subsystems interacting in the dipole approximation, though those restrictions are convenient simplifications, not essential features. Retardation effects are explicitly evaluated and shown to be negligible over relevant intramolecular distances. The translation invariance of the theory is demonstrated. The unique feature of the theory is that unlike previous theories it is developed without reference to the Rosenfeld equation for the rotation angle. Furthermore, it provides a physically appealing interpretation of the ‘coupled oscillator’ terms in the expression.