title: Stark slowing asymmetric rotors: weak-field-seeking states and nonadiabatic transitions.
abstract: Stark deceleration is one of the few methods that can be used to slow polyatomic molecules. We present calculations of Stark shift energies, a quantitative analysis of nonadiabatic transition probabilities, and orientational distribution functions applicable to typical Stark slowing conditions for the two small asymmetric rotors nitromethane and acetaldehyde. We show that asymmetric polyatomic molecules are good candidates for Stark slowing.
authors.affiliation: The University of Oklahoma, Homer L. Dodge Department of Physics and Astronomy, Norman, OK 73019, USA.
authors.forename: Arne
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Schwettmann
authors.forename: Jack
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Franklin
authors.forename: K Richard
authors.initials: KR
authors.lastname: Overstreet
authors.forename: James P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Shaffer