Reaction Dynamics in Solution Probed by Ultrafast Photoemission

Chemical reaction dynamics in aqueous solution have traditionally been studied using optical methods such as absorption, emission, and scattering spectroscopy. In this talk, I will describe our efforts to follow chemical reactions in solution in real time by detecting photoelectrons emitted from the surface of an aqueous solution - that is, by exploiting the photoelectric effect. At first glance, such measurements might appear to provide information only on processes occurring at the liquid surface. In practice, however, they also yield important insights into chemical reactions taking place in the bulk liquid. Furthermore, by combining photoelectron spectroscopy with infrared spectroscopy in a complementary manner, it becomes possible to track both changes in electronic states and accompanying changes in molecular structure. I will illustrate this approach mainly through examples involving nucleobases.

Speaker: Toshi Suzuki, Kyoto University