Peter Atkins is a British chemist and author, born on August 10, 1940. He is particularly known for his textbooks on physical chemistry, which have been widely used at university level around the world. Atkins studied at the University of Leicester and obtained his PhD in chemistry from the University of Oxford, where he later became a lecturer in physical chemistry. His writing is characterized by clear explanations and a commitment to helping students understand complex scientific concepts. Among his well-known works are "Physical Chemistry," which provides comprehensive coverage of the field, and "Molecular Quantum Mechanics," which delves into the quantum mechanics behind molecular structure and behavior. Atkins is also known for his books that popularize science for a general audience, such as "Galileo's Finger: The Ten Great Ideas of Science," and his advocacy for scientific literacy.