Laser Spectroscopy of Excited States in Atmospheric Molecules

Abstract

The principal objectives of this project were to systematically investigate the structure and dynamics of molecular Rydberg states using high resolution laser spectroscopy. We have established a new laser facility for this purpose, and have used it to accomplish several initial projects. Using laser double resonance, we have made a systematic study of Rydberg state energy level structure and autoionization in the NO molecule, particularly in the nf states. A simple theoretical model was devised, based on the long-range interaction between the molecular ion core and the excited Rydberg electron, that accurately describes both electronic structure and autoionization rates in nonpenetrating Rydberg states. We have also obtained double resonance spectra of previously unknown excited states in CO, and have been able to characterize the 3 so state of O2 using photo-electron spectroscopy.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 27, 1989
Accession Number
ADA204554

Entities

People

  • Edward E. Eyler
  • Steven D. Colson
  • William A. Chupka

Organizations

  • Yale University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Dye Lasers
  • Electrons
  • Energy Levels
  • Frequency Combs
  • High Resolution
  • Ionization
  • Ionization Potentials
  • Laser Applications
  • Laser Beams
  • Laser Spectroscopy
  • Lasers
  • Liquid Dye Lasers
  • Molecular Beams
  • Molecules
  • Quadrupole Moment
  • Spectra
  • Spectroscopy

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Molecular Photonics/Laser Physics
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Microelectronics