hemistry andphysics. The work of Ernest Rutherford, H. G. J. Moseley, and Niels Bohr on atomicstructure (see atom) was applied to molecular structures. G. N. Lewis, Irving Langmuir,and Linus Pauling developed the electronic theory of chemical bonds, directed valency,and molecular orbitals (see molecular orbital theory). Transmutation of the elements, firstachieved by Rutherford, has led to the creation of elements not found in nature; in workpioneered by Glenn Seaborg elements heavier than uranium have been produced. With therapid development of polymer chemistry after World War II a host of new synthetic fibersand materials have been added to the market. A fuller understanding of the relationbetween the structure of molecules and their properties has allowed chemists to tailorpredictively new materials to meet specific needs....
