In this review we have presented a brief survey of a variety of bimolecular photophysical interactions where electromagnetic coupling plays a central role. In particular, we have attempted to illustrate the use of quantum electrodynamics in conceptualizing and interpreting these processes. For example, it is only by the use of such methods that 'radiationless' and radiative coupling can be shown not to comprise competitive mechanisms for energy transfer. We have specifically dealt with the interactions of a two-body system. Since coupling extends beyond nearest neighbours, the possibility of trimolecular or even higher order processes can conceivably arise,35 though at present experimental observations appear fully consistent with pair coupling. The influence of the electronic fields of intervening molecules can also be addressed, though at cost of considerably increased theoretical complexity. Nonetheless, additional features attributable to attenuation and refraction can then be identified, facilitating more realistic modelling of bulk systems.8 With these elements of theory now well in place, there is ample scope for further explorations and discoveries of new applications in the field of bimolecular photophysics.
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