Title from publisher's bibliographic system (viewed on 05 Oct 2015).

Reasons for the enquiry -- Different approaches to, and different kinds of, molecular forces -- Electrostatic forces in electrolytes in outline -- The balance of forces -- Quantum mechanical forces in condensed media -- The extension of the Lifshitz theory to include electrolytes and Hofmeister effects -- Specific ion effects -- The effects of dissolved gas and other solutes on hydrophobic interactions -- Self assembly : overview -- Self assembly in theory and practice -- Bicontinuous phases and otehr structures : forces at work in biological systems -- Emulsions and microemulsions -- Forces at work : a miscellany of issues.

Challenging the cherished notions of colloidal theory, Barry Ninham and Pierandrea Lo Nostro confront the scientific lore of molecular forces and colloidal science in an incisive and thought-provoking manner. The authors explain the development of these classical theories, discussing amongst other topics electrostatic forces in electrolytes, specific ion effects and hydrophobic interactions. Throughout the book they question assumptions, unearth flaws and present new results and ideas. From such analysis, a qualitative and predictive framework for the field emerges; the impact of this is discussed in the latter half of the book through force behaviour in self assembly. Here, numerous diverse phenomena are explained, from surfactants to biological applications, all richly illustrated with pertinent, intellectually stimulating examples. With mathematics kept to a minimum, and historic facts and anecdotes woven through the text, this is a highly engaging and readable treatment for students and researchers in science and engineering.