Time-resolved momentum imaging system for molecular dynamics studies using a tabletop ultrafast extreme-ultraviolet...

Area of Science:

• Chemical Physics
• Molecular Dynamics
• Ultrafast Spectroscopy

Background:

• Studying ultrafast molecular dynamics requires high temporal resolution.
• Inner-valence states of molecules are crucial for understanding chemical reactions.
• Existing methods may lack the resolution or energy range to probe specific dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel momentum imaging setup for time-resolved studies of ionization-induced molecular dynamics.
• To enable real-time observation of molecular processes following photoexcitation.
• To utilize a tabletop ultrafast extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) light source for these investigations.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a tabletop ultrafast extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) light source (around 42 eV) generated via high harmonic upconversion.
• Employed femtosecond laser pulses with sub-10-fs duration for high temporal resolution.
• Applied cold target recoil ion momentum spectroscopy (COLTRIMS) reaction microscope for coincident 3D momentum imaging of photofragments.

Main Results:

• The setup allows single-photon excitation of inner-valence states in small molecules.
• Real-time tracking of molecular dynamics following EUV-induced photofragmentation is achieved.
• The system is capable of pump-probe spectroscopy using combinations of EUV and IR laser pulses.

Conclusions:

• The developed momentum imaging setup provides a powerful tool for direct time-resolved studies of molecular dynamics.
• This system facilitates detailed investigations of ionization-induced processes in molecules.
• The combination of EUV light and COLTRIMS opens new avenues for exploring fundamental molecular science.