Image of atom moving in molecule

According to AFP, on 7/3, physicists from the University of Ohio, USA for the first time captured images specifically describe the real motion of atoms within the molecule, using A new technique can turn one of the molecules of electrons into a kind of flashbulb.

Images taken using ultrafast lasers (50 femtoseconds or a thousandth of a millionth of a second) are projected directly onto nitrogen and oxygen molecules.

The actual motion of the atom inside the molecule

In this way, physicists can dislodge a single electron from the outer shell of the molecule and detect the electron's scattering signal as it falls back into the molecule itself. When the electron falls back on the molecule, it creates a small collision, like tiny waves on the lake, creating a diffraction of energy and a pickup sensor that records the vibration of the atom.

By measuring the interference signals of the electron as it collides with the molecule, scientists have been able to reproduce the size and shape of the molecule, as well as the positions of the atomic nucleus as well as its activity. inside of the molecule. This process also enabled researchers to capture the motion of atoms during that time and to draw a frame diagram.

Professor Louis DiMauro says the work marks a step forward not only in observing chemical reactions, but also in controlling them at the atomic level.