Units

Spectroscopy, Quantum Chemistry and Atmospheric Remote Sensing

Person in charge of the Unit : Oui

The ''Service de Chimie quantique et Photophysique'' (previously ''Service de Chimie Physique Moléculaire'') is active in the field of physical chemistry. The research focuses on the internal structure of atoms and molecules and their related reactivity. We interrogate species using light and perform high resolution spectroscopic experiments with Fourier transform interferometers and lasers. We simultaneously calculate their properties using computers with ab initio time dependent and independent methods. We are most concerned by the role the species we investigate play in Earth's atmospheric processes, and in other planetary and stellar atmospheres as well as in the interstellar space. Besides the development and use of state-of-the-art experimental and theoretical investigation means in the laboratory, we participate to remote sensing satellite missions and perform ground based validation measurements. Theoretical modeling results from both our laboratory and remote sensing activities. Our research activities are detailed under the following three main themes: 1. Experimental Molecular Chemical Physics 2. Quantum Chemistry and Atomic Physics 3. Spectroscopy of the Atmosphere

Projetcs

Spectral analysis and model-Hamiltonians

High resolution spectra of di- and poly-atomic molecules recorded in various spectral ranges are analysed. In this framework, we contribute to the theoretical development of model-Hamiltonians (rotation-vibration-torsion) and computer codes allowing their resolution.

Infrared and UV-visible line profiles

Measurements of absorption line parameters (positions, absolute intensities, widths) and absorption cross-sections using Fourier transform spectroscopy, with state-of-the-art accuracy. Specific measurements are performed on reactive compounds and/or species in chemical equilibrium with others, in spectral regions matching the atmospheric windows.