RUI: Measurement of Hyperfine Interactions in Small Molecules

Saint Olaf College, Northfield MN

Investigators

Abstract

This award provides for the continuation of a project to measure hyperfine spectra in sequences of vibrational and rotational states in small molecules, such as alkali halides or hydroxides, using a high-resolution molecular beam electric resonance spectrometer. These spectra will provide improved values for hyperfine interaction constants, to be compared with those obtained from theoretical calculations of electron wave functions. Systematic variations of the interactions with isotopic substitution and between the different alkali halide molecules will be examined. Undergraduate physics majors will work with faculty as colleagues in all aspects of the work.