Laser-driven torsional coherences
Abstract
We discuss several interesting phenomena in the dynamics of strong field-triggered torsional wavepackets, which carry implications for the problem of torsional alignment in nonrigid molecules. Our results point to the origin and consequences of the fundamental differences between rotational and torsional coherences. In addition, we provide design guidelines for torsional control experiments by illustrating the role played by the laser intensity, pulse width, temperature, and molecular parameters. Specifically, as an example of several classes of molecules expected to make suitable candidates for laboratory experiments, we explore the torsional control of 9-[2-(anthracen-9-yl)ethynyl]anthracene and contrast it with that of biphenyl. Finally, we propose several potential applications for coherent torsional control in chemistry, physics, and material science.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Jan 25, 2013
- Source ID
- 10.1063/1.4773009
Entities
People
- Benjamin A. Ashwell
- Shreyas Ramakrishna
- Tamar Seideman
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Northwestern University
- United States Department of Energy