Resonance Raman spectroscopy of mass selected Al2 in an argon matrix

In an excitation range of 620-760 nm, resonance Raman spectra of aluminum dimers (Al2) in an argon matrix have been obtained for the first time. Temperature annealing experiments were performed to remove Raman lines attributed site effects caused by the Al2/Ar matrix. We observe a single fundamental at 293.3 (5) cm(-1) along with a progression up to 1149 (1) cm(-1). Taking successive differences of band centers we obtain spectroscopic constants for the ground state fundamental, w(e) = 297.5 (5) cm(-1), the anharmonicity, e(e)x(e) = 1.68 (8) cm(-1). Our results are in close agreement with previous experimental results for Al2 which designate the ground state as a 3piu state, and may be considered as confirmation of this assignment.