Millimeter and Submillimeter Rest Frequencies for the MgF Radical
Abstract
The pure rotational spectrum of the MgF radical in its ground X2 Sigma(+) electronic state has been observed in the laboratory using millimeter/submillimeter direct absorption spectroscopy. Rotational transitions arising from the v = 0, 1, 2, and 3 vibrational modes of the main magnesium isotopic species, (24)MgF, have been recorded, as well as those arising from the v = 0 state of the Mg-25 and Mg-26 isotopomers. Rotational and fine-structure constants have been determined for these molecules, as well as hyperfine parameters for both the F-19 (I = 1/2) and Mg-25 (I = 5/2) nuclei. The rest frequencies presented here for MgF have an estimated accuracy of +/- 200 kHz, and will enable astronomical searches to be carried out for this fluoride radical. Magnesium fluoride may be present in the late-type carbon star IRC +10216, where AlF appears to be abundant.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- April 1994
- DOI:
- 10.1086/187309
- Bibcode:
- 1994ApJ...425L..53A
- Keywords:
-
- Absorption Spectra;
- Fine Structure;
- Fluorine Isotopes;
- Magnesium Fluorides;
- Magnesium Isotopes;
- Molecular Spectra;
- Molecular Spectroscopy;
- Rotational States;
- Aluminum Fluorides;
- Carbon Stars;
- Extremely High Frequencies;
- Interstellar Matter;
- Millimeter Waves;
- Submillimeter Waves;
- Astronomy;
- ISM: MOLECULES;
- LINE: IDENTIFICATION;
- MOLECULAR DATA