In this project in the Experimental Physical Chemistry program of the Chemistry Division, McHale will use resonance Raman (RR) techniques to study intermolecular interactions in the condensed phase, particularly the effects of solvent dynamics on charge transfer processes. Raman excitation profiles will be time-analyzed in systems such as betaine and triphenylmethane dyes, as well as in two-chromophore systems. Results will be compared with those from ultrafast spectroscopy experiments. To isolate solvent dynamics from energetics, isotopic substitution of the solvent will be employed, and other parameters such as polarity, viscosity, and polarizability will be investigated. %%% The results of this research will lead to a better understanding of the influence of a solvent on chemical reactions which are occurring in it. This work will also contribute to understanding how to control chemical reactions in solid or liquid phases by using different solvents or using lasers to initiate or enhance the reaction.
