Quantum kinetic theory of polyatomic gases

A review is given of the kinetic theory of polyatomic gases as based on the quantum mechanical Waldmann-Snider kinetic equation. The transport properties in the Navier-Stokes and Burnett regimes and their dependence on external electric and magnetic fields (Senftleben and Senftleben-Beenakker effects) as well as flow and heat-flow birefringence are discussed for gases consisting of linear, spherical top and symmetric top molecules. The relaxation phenomena associated with sound propagation, Rayleigh-Brillouin, depolarized Rayleigh and Raman light scattering are considered in some detail as well as nuclear magnetic and electron spin relaxation and pressure broadening of microwave spectral lines. Finally an overview is given of the quantum mechanical methods for the quantitative calculation of all these phenomena from the nonspherical intermolecular potential.