THz SPECTROSCOPY OF AlH (X1Σ+): DIRECT MEASUREMENT OF THEJ= 2 ← 1 TRANSITION

Abstract

The J = 2 ← 1 rotational transition of AlH (X {sup 1}Σ{sup +}) near 755 GHz and the J = 4 ← 3 line of AlD (X {sup 1}Σ{sup +}) near 787 GHz have been measured using terahertz direct absorption spectroscopy. Both species were created in an AC discharge of Al(CH{sub 3}){sub 3} and H{sub 2} or D{sub 2} in the presence of argon. This work is the first direct measurement of both transitions. These data were combined with previous submillimeter transition frequencies for both molecules recorded by Halfen and Ziurys in global analyses to refine their spectroscopic parameters. The constants B and D for AlH were determined for the first time based on pure rotational data only, improving their accuracy, while those for AlD were slightly refined. Predictions for higher-lying transitions of AlH must consequently be revised by at least 50 MHz, a significant difference. AlH has been observed via its A {sup 1}Π-X {sup 1}Σ{sup +} electronic transition in stellar photospheres, suggesting that this species may be present in circumstellar gas surrounding late-type stars, where five aluminum-bearing molecules have already been detected.