Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy: P,Q,R Branches

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In summary, rotational-vibrational spectroscopy has three branches - P, Q, and R. The P-branch corresponds to low level rotational transitions with "delta J = -1" while the R-branch corresponds to high rotations with "delta J = +1". The Q-branch, which corresponds to "delta J = 0", means that there is no rotational change and it is allowed in some cases. This condition is derived from the rigid rotor model, but molecules that do not fit this model can exhibit Q branch transitions. Additionally, in certain cases, electronic angular momentum can also yield a "delta J = 0" selection rule, where the photon angular momentum is transferred to the electronic degrees of freedom rather than the rotational
  • #1
photon79
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In rotational-vibrational spectroscopy P-branch corresponds to low level rotational transitions "delta J = -1" and R-branch to high rotations "delta J = +1". And I am confused about Q branch which corresponds to "delta J = 0" ; which means that no rotational change is there and it is allowed in some cases. I want to know when it is allowed and how?. Because when vibrational or electronic transitions are there rotational quantum number should change.
 
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  • #2
The condition that delta J = 0 is derived from the rigid rotor model. Molecules that are not well approximated by the rigid rotor model can therefore potentially exhibit Q branch transitions.

Claude.
 
  • #3
Hi claude...thanks for the replies, I got some thing out of them,.
 
  • #4
Always good to know :wink: .

Claude.
 
  • #5
Though its not the case you mentioned, it is also possible that electronic angular momentum may yield a [tex]\Delta J = 0 [/tex] selection rule. This may occur when a rotational transition accompanies an electronic transition between, say, a [tex]\Sigma[/tex] singlet state to a[tex]\Pi[/tex] singlet state. In this case, the photon angular momentum is transferred to the electronic degrees of freedom as opposed to the rotational motion of the nuclei.
 

1. What is Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy?

Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy is a technique used in analytical chemistry and physics to study the structure and properties of molecules. It involves measuring the absorption or emission of electromagnetic radiation by molecules as they undergo rotational and vibrational energy transitions.

2. What are the P, Q, and R branches in Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy?

The P, Q, and R branches refer to specific groups of spectral lines that appear in a Rotational-Vibrational spectrum. The P branch corresponds to changes in rotational energy, the Q branch corresponds to changes in both rotational and vibrational energy, and the R branch corresponds to changes in vibrational energy alone.

3. How is Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy used in research?

Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy is used in a variety of research fields, including chemistry, physics, and astronomy. It can be used to identify and characterize molecules, study their structures and properties, and even determine the composition of distant stars and planets.

4. What equipment is needed for Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy?

To perform Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy, a spectrometer is typically used. This instrument can measure the absorption or emission of electromagnetic radiation in a sample. Other necessary equipment may include a light source, sample holder, and computer software for data analysis.

5. What are the limitations of Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy?

While Rotational-Vibrational Spectroscopy is a powerful tool for studying molecules, it does have some limitations. It is most effective for small, simple molecules and may struggle to accurately analyze larger, more complex molecules. It also requires precise control of experimental conditions and can be sensitive to sample impurities.

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