https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.R05326
In the context of chemistry, the term refers to the representation of the electronic structure of a @M03986@ in terms of @C01309@. Resonance among contributing structures means that the wavefunction is represented by 'mixing' the wavefunctions of the contributing structures. The concept is the basis of the quantum mechanical @V06588@ bond methods. The resulting stabilization is linked to the quantum mechanical concept of '@R05333@'. The term resonance is also used to refer to the @D01583@ phenomenon itself.
See also:
mesomerism
Source:
PAC, 1994, 66, 1077. (Glossary of terms used in physical organic chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 1994)) on page 1161 [Terms] [Paper]