27515 - Radiation-Matter Interaction and Spectroscopy

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students know the theoretical bases of the radiation-matter interaction (linear and non linear effects) and how to apply quantum mechanics to molecular spectroscopy.

Course contents

1)Approximate techniques in quantum mechanics.
  Time-indipendent and perturbation theory.
  Variation theory.
2)The interaction between radiation and matter.
  Time-dependent perturbation theory.
  Transition rate.
  The transition probabilities.
  Life time and energy uncertainty.
3)Rotational Spectroscopy.
  The rotational energies of linear and polyatomic molecules.
  Rotational selection rules.
  Stark effect in rotational spectroscopy.
4)Vibrational spectroscopy.
  A complete picture of the diatomic molecule vibrorotational spectrum.
  The vibrations of polyatomic molecules in the harmonic oscillator
  approximation, classic and quantum-mechanical treatment.
  An introduction to the molecular symmetry and group theory.
  The vibrational selection rules.
  Tha Raman spectroscopy.
5)NMR spectroscopy.
  Nuclear spin and applied magnetic field.
  The Zeeman Hamiltonian and the spin-spin coupling Hamiltonian.
  The analysis of NMR spectra in liquids.
6)ESR spectroscopy
   Introduction

Readings/Bibliography

"Molecular Spectroscopy", J.D. Graybeal, McGraw-Hill Book Company.1988

"Intrduction to Magnetic Resonance", A. Carrington and A.D. McLachlan, Harper and Row Publishers.

Teaching methods

Lectures cover a detailed description of the radiation-matter interaction and the various molecular spectroscopies

Assessment methods

The examination is an interview aimed at verifying student's knowledge and understanding of the arguments discussed during the course.

Teaching tools

Blackboard and video-projection. Educational materials related to lectures

Office hours

See the website of Cristina Puzzarini