| Abstract: | Statistical theories of mass spectra are based on two assumptions. The first one, which postulates efficient phase space sampling, is substantiated by various experimentation and is now theoretically much better understood. The efficiency of phase space sampling can be estimated and is found to be quite good. Much effort remains to be done concerning the second assumption. A new impetus should be given to the concept of transition state. A better understanding of the role played by the conservation of angular momentum, the exact significance of transition state switching, and the incorporation of quantum effects are set as goals for the future. |
