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Quantum interference in the Schumann‐Runge bands of molecular oxygen
Author(s) -
Lewis B. R.,
Gibson S. T.,
Torop L. W.,
McCoy D. G.
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/98gl51783
Subject(s) - interference (communication) , asymmetry , schumann resonances , line (geometry) , physics , atomic physics , channel (broadcasting) , quantum mechanics , mathematics , astronomy , geometry , ionosphere , electrical engineering , engineering
The photoabsorption cross section of O 2 in the Schumann‐Runge bands is investigated theoretically using the coupled‐channel Schrödinger‐equations method. It is found that quantum interference between vibrational bands leads to significant asymmetry in the far line wings, a result supported by experimental evidence. Thus, Schumann‐Runge cross sections calculated with the usual band models based on Voigt line shapes may be in error in regions of weak absorption between vibrational band heads, suggesting the need to re‐evaluate aspects of atmospheric photochemistry sensitive to those regions.