Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Multimodal Nonlinear Hyperspectral Chemical Imaging Using Line-Scanning Vibrational Sum-Frequency Generation Microscopy
Published on: December 1, 2023
Determination of the three-dimensional orientation of single molecules
Matthew R Foreman1, Carlos Macías Romero, Peter Török
1Blackett Laboratory, Department of Physics, Imperial College London, Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BZ, UK.
Abstract:
A simple method for real-time determination of the full three-dimensional orientation of the emission dipole of single molecules is presented. Introduction of a pi phase step in the back focal plane of the collector lens breaks the inherent symmetry, allowing the longitudinal dipole component to be measured. Experimental tolerances and the consequence of a nonzero bandwidth emission spectrum are also discussed. The scheme also allows for the longitudinal component of an electric field to be found experimentally.
Related Concept Videos
Fischer Projections
Newman Projections
The organic molecules rotate across the single bonds leading to numerous temporary three-dimensional structures of varying energy known as conformers.
¹H NMR of Conformationally Flexible Molecules: Temporal Resolution
Determination of Crystal Structures
Three-Dimensional Microscopy in Microbiology
Molecular Shapes
