Chemistry seminar with Dr. Caroline Jarrold from Indiana University at 4pm

Abstract: 

Anion photoelectron spectroscopy is a powerful mass-specific tool for probing electronic structures of neutrals of a wide range of molecules, clusters, and complexes. The s =  ½ selection rule enables a direct map of neutral electronic states with different spin multiplicities. While anion photoelectron spectra have historically been successfully interpreted within the one-electron transition, Born-Oppenheimer framework, strongly correlated species can exhibit spectroscopic features that require a more nuanced interpretation. A survey of complex photodetachment processes will be presented to set the stage for a deeper dive into a uniquely complex class of lanthanide oxide cluster anions and molecules. These clusters model the cores of lanthanide based single molecule magnets, and provide insight into the intrinsic properties of a range of cluster structures and oxidation states. The anomalous spectroscopic phenomena, hypotheses on the physics that govern the phenomena, and attempts to exploit these anomalies to arrive at a more detailed understanding of lanthanide oxides will be explored.