Knowledge Bank

A study of the low resolution rotational spectrum of $CF3CH2OH$ employing a Stark-modulated absorption spectrometer as well as an optoacoustic microwave spectrometer identified two series of bands which fit the relation $\nu \cong (2A-B-C)(K1+1/2).1$ These bands were assigned to {b}-type Q-branch series characteristic of a nearly prolate rotor. Utilising the high resolution of a pulsed-beam Fourier-transform spectrometer, $\mu a$- and $\mu b$- type transitions have been assigned for two states in $CF3CH2OH$. The transitions cannot be satisfactorily fit to an asymmetrical top Watson Hamiltonian presumably because the two states involved are Coriolis coupled. However, a large number of combination differences confirm the low J energy level structure for each state. Currently, optothermal microwave studies are underway to obtain high frequency data in order to understand the origin of the spectral perturbations.