The hunt for elusive molecules: Insights from joint theoretical and experimental investigations

Abstract

Rotational spectroscopy is an invaluable tool to unambiguously determine the molecular structure of a species, and sometimes even to establish its very existence. This article illustrates how experimental and theoretical state-of-the-art tools can be used in tandem to investigate the rotational structure of molecules, with particular emphasis on those that have long remained elusive. The examples of three emblematic species — gauche-butadiene, disilicon carbide, and germanium dicarbide— highlight the close, mutually beneficial interaction between high-level theoretical calculations and sensitive microwave measurements. Prospects to detect still other elusive molecules of chemical and astronomical interest are discussed.

Marie-Aline Martin-Drumel

Researcher

My research interests focus on molecular spectroscopy of stable molecules and reactive species, and its applications for astrophysics and physical-chemistry.