George W. Wheland: Forgotten Pioneer of Resonance Theory

George W. Wheland, although little remembered by the general chemistry public today, is forever linked to resonance theory through three seminal papers written with Linus Pau ling and through two substantial monographs (1944 and 1955) on resonance. At the University of Chicago he carried out research on organic acids and bases, while continuing to publish papers on quantum chemistry. He also wrote three editions of a highly regarded text on "Advanced Organic Chemistry." Sadly, his scientific career ended long before his death when he contracted multiple sclerosis. This chapter gives an overview of his career, writings, and research in quantum chemistry.