Dynamics of Electronically Excited States: Models for Chemical Reactivity

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In this project, funded by the Experimental Physical Chemistry Program of the Chemistry Division, Prof. David Pratt of the Department of Chemistry of the University of Pittsburgh will conduct a series of experiments designed to determine the three-dimensional structures and dynamical properties of several large molecules and their weakly bound solute-solvent complexes in the gas phase. To this end, high-resolution electronic spectra of several systems relevant to the physical chemistry of life processes will be obtained by combining the techniques of supersonic expansions, cw molecular beams, single frequency UV lasers, spatially selective fluorescence detection, and high-speed data acquisition. The application of electric fields to the sample will make possible the measurement of the permanent electric dipole moments in the combining electronic states. Specific problems to be addressed are the torsional modes in intersystem crossing dynamics, the motion of helium atoms in van der Waals complexes of tetracene, the geometries of exiplexes formed in the gas phase between substituted naphthalenes, as well as other topics.Graduate and undergraduate students, as well as postdoctoral research associates will participate in this research. Close attention will be paid to the training of future teachers of K-12 science courses. The participants in this research project will gain valuable skills and knowledge in contemporary physical chemistry, as well as training in the planning and execution of research programs.