Atomic, molecular, and optical physics (AMO) explores matter–matter and light–matter interactions at the scale of one or a few atoms, focusing on energy scales around electron volts. Its central focus is fundamental research on atoms, simple molecules, electrons, electromagnetic radiation (light), and their interactions. AMO physics typically encompasses the theory and applications of emission, absorption, and scattering of electromagnetic radiation from excited atoms and molecules; the analysis of spectroscopy; the generation of lasers; and the study of the optical properties of matter in general. AMO plays an enabling role in many areas of science by developing methods for controlling and manipulating atoms, molecules, charged particles, and light; conducting precision measurements and calculations of their properties; and inventing new ways to generate light with specific properties.