The objective of this research is to clarify the mechanisms responsible for a variety of physical properties exhibited by transition-metal oxides. Examples include complex electronic transitions of perovskite type oxides correlated with their magnetic properties. At the present time, solid state theory is unable to account for such properties as the high-temperature superconductivity of the copper oxides or the colossal intrinsic magnetoresistance of the manganese-oxide perovskites. These studies will aim to fill a gap in our understanding essential for theoretical development needed for the design of new classes of materials. %%% Because they exhibit properties such as high-temperature superconductivity, colossal magnetoresistance, and thermoelectric behavior, transition metal oxides constitute one of the most important and interesting classes of materials with respect to their potential for technological applications. Studying the relation of chemistry and crystal structure to the physical properties of these solids will aid the development of theory important to the design of a new and improved engineering materials. ***
