Metal-bearing molecules impact the chemical and physical environment of many astronomical sources such as the circumstellar envelopes (CSEs) of large asymptotic giant branch (AGB) and red supergiant (RSG) stars, the interstellar medium, and planetary atmospheres. In recent decades, the number of successfully detected metal-containing molecules has increased, indicating rich metallic chemistry occurring in the gas-phase or on the surface of dust grains. These detections occur mainly via rotational observations and are driven by increased theoretical and experimental investigations. Following formation, the fate of each species (stabilization, dissociation, etc.) is determined by its vibrational and electronic spectroscopic properties, as it encounters the pervasive radiation fields in space. Studying these properties can evince the possibility of detection and predict the impact each molecule has on its surrounding environment. In this talk, we will present the theoretical rotational, vibrational, and electronic spectroscopy of small aluminum-bearing molecules with the goal of driving detection in chemically complex environments and discuss their photochemical pathways.

Spectroscopy and photochemistry of small aluminum-bearing molecules

Fall 2022 abstracts, posters, and presentations will launch in mid-September.

ACS Fall 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.