Infrared line narrowing and cluster absorption in a planar jet

Infrared laser absorption by a planar molecular jet is studied. The absorption lineshape is narrowed by a factor of 2 to 3, as compared to the absorption lineshape in bulk gas. The infrared absorption of CO₂ clusters is observed directly in a jet. The formation of clusters in the jet is monitored for different mixtures and distances from the nozzle.Work supported by Stichting voor Fundamenteel Onderzoek der Materie (FOM)