Ultrafast vibrational Stark-effect spectroscopy: exploring charge-transfer reactions by directly monitoring the solvation shell response

J Am Chem Soc. 2010 Sep 22;132(37):12784-5. doi: 10.1021/ja1043853.

Abstract

We present the first implementation of transient vibrational Stark-effect spectroscopy as an ultrafast probe of solvation dynamics. The method is applied to the phototriggered intramolecular charge-transfer reaction of Betaine-30, where the vibrational Stark shifts of the nearby solvent molecules--arising from the change in the electrostatic environment--are measured using a three-pulse photon echo probe. This new experiment provides a direct subpicosecond measure of the chromophore's excited-state dynamics and back electron transfer as viewed from the solvent's perspective. We develop a simple ab initio model that offers semiquantitative prediction of the experimental Stark shifts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Betaine / chemistry
  • Electron Transport
  • Models, Molecular
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Photochemical Processes
  • Solvents / chemistry*
  • Spectrum Analysis*
  • Time Factors
  • Vibration*

Substances

  • Solvents
  • Betaine