The lattice vibration spectrum of a solid has recently been characterized by one single frequency, which is defined as the frequency of the center of gravity of the spectrum, called 'centro-frequency.' Here the experimental determination of this frequency is shown in detail for a number of solids, the vibrational spectra of which became available recently. Emphasis is given to spectral data at various temperatures, from 4K to about 1000K, and at the various major crystallographic directions. The 'centro-frequencies' at room temperature and higher temperatures show almost no change; whereas, at low temperature the 'centrofrequencies' consistently show a very definite increase. The result reveals a definite increase in binding energy with temperature decrease. A considerably higher resolution, particularly in the broad band areas, was obtained with spectra at very low temperatures. (Author).

This work treats spectral and atomistic concepts derived from an analytical study of more than one hundred solids. The study deals with such characteristics as infrared spectra, specific heat, bulk-modulus, change of compressibility with pressure, lattice anharmonicity, exponent of repulsion, lattice cohesive energy, zero-point energy, hardness, and valence. Characterizing the lattice vibrations - that is, the infrared spectrum through one single frequency (the 'centro-frequency', defined by the center of gravity of the entire spectrum) - it is shown that an identical frequency may be derived as a mechanical analogy from the average velocity of sound determined, in this case, from the cubic compressibility. A thermodynamical analogy exists in the Debye frequency from specific heat. The 'centro-frequency' has proven to be the key to a successful formulation of the nonlinearity or anharmonicity of the attractive and repulsive forces in solids. The importance of anharmonicity for the understanding of the basic properties of solids from an atomistic point of view is shown through various applications. (Author).

Summaries are given of research in the following fields: upper atmosphere physics, microwave physics, space physics, terrestrial sciences, optical physics, data sciences, meteorology, solid state, aerospace instrumentation.