RUI: High Resolution Coherent Double Resonance Electronic Spectroscopy

Spelman College, Atlanta GA

Investigators

Abstract

The Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program supports Professor Peter Chen at Spelman College to develop and utilize high resolution coherent 2D spectroscopy to study molecular systems too complex for existing spectroscopic techniques. Also under study are small but important molecules (e.g., EPA priority pollutants like NO2 and SO2) for which strong perturbations and mixing effects yield spectra too complicated to study using existing (one-dimensional) spectroscopic techniques. Dr. Chen and his group develop new coherent two-dimensional spectroscopic techniques to deal with these problems and to study the dynamics of important photochemical processes in the atmosphere. The project may improve fundamental understanding of the photochemistry of NO2 and SO2, which are among the six priority pollutants targeted by the Clean Air Act. It provides exceptional research training of African American women at one of only two Historically Black Colleges for women.