The theoretical schism in foundational chemistry: Lewis vs. quantum

Chemical bonding, structure, and reactivity are routinely taught and understood using a combination of classical Lewis theory and quantum chemistry. Both approaches are highly successful at describing and explaining many of the phenomena of chemistry, but they are also mutually incompatible. The aim of this paper is to elucidate, illustrate, and explain the issues.

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Journal
Foundations of Chemistry
Published
2025-12-24
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10698-025-09560-2
Primary Topic
History and advancements in chemistry
Type
article
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article

The theoretical schism in foundational chemistry: Lewis vs. quantum

Mark R. Leach
Foundations of Chemistry
History and advancements in chemistry
article

The theoretical schism in foundational chemistry: Lewis vs. quantum

Mark R. Leach
article en

Abstract

Chemical bonding, structure, and reactivity are routinely taught and understood using a combination of classical Lewis theory and quantum chemistry. Both approaches are highly successful at describing and explaining many of the phenomena of chemistry, but they are also mutually incompatible. The aim of this paper is to elucidate, illustrate, and explain the issues.

Foundations of ChemistryVol. 28(1)
Chemical Synthesis Lab (SG)
Openalex Percentile: Top 26%
History and advancements in chemistry
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The theoretical schism in foundational chemistry: Lewis vs. quantum — Mark R. Leach · Foundations of Chemistry (2025) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS