Laser Experiments in a Modernized Physical Chemistry Laboratory

The Chemistry Department is purchasing a nitrogen/dye laser, a scanning monochromator, and a photomultiplier tube for use in physical chemistry and undergraduate research. The system is being used to introduce Raman spectroscopy, laser-induced fluorescence, phosphorescence, and fast kinetics to students in Physical Chemistry Laboratory. Students are learning to combine laser technology with other modern techniques such as computer interfacing and theoretical quantum mechanical calculations as an introduction to research. The equipment is also to students participating in undergraduate research.