The magnetic circular dichroism spectrum of the halogen molecules I 2, Br 2, Cl 2. Resolution of overlapping continua

Abstract

The magnetic circular dichroism spectra of the halogen molecules I 2, Br 2 and Cl 2 were investigated in solution and in the gas phase. The spectral region studied was the visible and near ultraviolet (800-250 nm). The MCD spectra were interpreted successfully in terms of the transitions to the states 3Π 1u, 3Π 0 +u , and 1Π u. The interpretation presented is supported by a theoretical calculation of MCD parameters which successfully account for the observations. The major result is the resolution of the continuous absorption into the contributions due to 3Π 0 +u and 1Π u.