Multidimensional transition-state theory calculations for nuclear dynamics of core-excited molecules

Abstract

We have extended the transition-state theory to describe the dynamics of core hole excitation. This allows us to interpret the abnormally bland near-edge x-ray absorption fine structure spectrum of the gas phase benzonitrile molecule at the N 1s edge. We have brought to light different paths for the two most intensive resonances, going from the linear to the bent structure. The profile of each resonance consists of two different vibrational progressions corresponding to stretching modes and a broad continuum of bending excited states.