Understanding the Gap in a HCl Absorption Spectrum

In summary, the conversation discusses the appearance of a gap in the middle of a HCl spectrum, which acts as a line of symmetry in the x-axis. It is explained that this gap is the Q branch, which is forbidden for linear molecules. This is due to the energy spacing between rotational quantum numbers being unequal in non-linear molecules, leading to a decrease with increasing change in rotational quantum number.
  • #1
v_pino
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  • #2
http://www.cartage.org.lb/en/themes/Sciences/Physics/MolecularPhysics/MolecularSpectra/Rotation/Rotation.htm
 
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  • #3
Hi PJ, thanks for the link. But can you be more specific as to which bit of the article you're referring to? Or do I have to go through the math for the explanation? Thanks.
 
  • #4
From the article, I gather that the "gap" is the Q branch, which is the forbidden region. But why?
 
  • #5
See reference (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rovibrational_coupling)

Vibrational spectra can be broken into 3 parts.

P branch; -1 change in rotational quantum number (J).
Q branch; no change in rotational quantum number.
R branch; +1 change in rotational quantum number.

The Q-branch is forbidden for linear (straight-line) molecules, hence the gap in the center of the spectrum. In the 1st approximation, the spacing between the energy levels in the P and R branch should be equal, assuming a perfect harmonic oscillator. Molecules are not, in general, perfect harmonic oscillators however, and so the energy spacing tends to decrease with increasing change in rotational quantum number.

Claude.
 

1. What is the gap in a HCl absorption spectrum?

The gap in a HCl absorption spectrum refers to the region in the spectrum where there is little to no absorption of light by the HCl molecule. This gap is caused by the energy levels of the molecule, which determine the wavelengths of light that can be absorbed.

2. Why is it important to understand the gap in a HCl absorption spectrum?

Understanding the gap in a HCl absorption spectrum is important because it can provide valuable information about the behavior and structure of the molecule. This knowledge can be applied in various fields such as chemistry, physics, and astronomy.

3. How is the gap in a HCl absorption spectrum determined?

The gap in a HCl absorption spectrum is determined through spectroscopy, which involves analyzing the interaction between light and matter. In this case, the absorption spectrum of HCl is measured by passing light through a sample of the molecule and observing the wavelengths that are absorbed.

4. What factors affect the size of the gap in a HCl absorption spectrum?

The size of the gap in a HCl absorption spectrum is affected by several factors, including the energy levels of the molecule, the strength of the bonds between the atoms, and the presence of other molecules that may interact with HCl. Temperature and pressure can also influence the size of the gap.

5. How can the knowledge of the gap in a HCl absorption spectrum be applied?

The knowledge of the gap in a HCl absorption spectrum can be applied in various ways. For example, it can help in identifying and characterizing HCl in different environments, studying the properties of other molecules with similar energy levels, and understanding the behavior of HCl in chemical reactions or in the atmosphere.

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