JILA Researchers Detect Elusive Atmospheric Compound (IMAGE)

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

JILA Researchers Detect Elusive Atmospheric Compound

Caption

JILA researchers used their frequency comb spectroscopy technique (multicolored lightwaves between the mirrors) to follow each step of an important chemical reaction that occurs in the atmosphere. The technique identifies chemicals in real time based on the light they absorb inside a mirrored cavity. The reaction combines the hydroxyl molecule and carbon monoxide (both at lower left) to form the hydrocarboxl intermediate (red, black and yellow molecule in the foreground). Eventually the intermediate breaks down into hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

Credit

Jun Ye group and Steve Burrows/JILA

Usage Restrictions

Please credit Jun Ye group and Steve Burrows/JILA.

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.