He I and He II photoelectron spectra (UPS) of several lactams were measured
and analyzed on the basis of empirical arguments and ab initio calculation
s. The electronic and molecular structure of the amide group is discussed o
n the basis of experimental and theoretical results. Relative basicities of
nitrogen centre(s) are also discussed within the framework of inductive an
d resonance effects. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.