Abstract
It has recently become possible to observe in real time many elementary molecular motions including intramolecular and intermolecular vibrations.1 Through impulsive stimulated scattering (ISS) of ultrashort pulses, phase coherent motion in electronic ground states can be initiated and monitored. Optical absorption of femtosecond pulses permits observation of phase coherent motion in electronic excited states. Experiments of both types have been carried out on molecular solids, liquids, and gases.1-3 Recent progress in observing and understanding the dynamics of nonreacting and reacting molecules in liquids is reported. The possibilities for impulsive stimulated Raman scattering (ISRS) excitation of large amplitude (>0.1-A) vibrational distortions are also discussed briefly.
© 1989 Optical Society of America
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