Non perturbative approach for a polar and polarizable linear molecule in an inhomogeneous electric field: Application to molecular beam deviation experiments

A non perturbative approach is used to solve the problem of a rigid linear molecule with both a permanent dipole moment and a static dipole polarizability, in a static electric field. Eigenenergies are obtained and compared to perturbative low field and high field approximations. Analytical expressions for the orientation parameters and for the gradient of the energy are given. This non perturbative approach is applied to the simulation of beam deviation experiments in strong electric field. Results of simulations are given for inhomogeneous alkali dimers. For LiNa, the simulations are compared to experimental data. For LiK, deviation profiles have been simulated in order to prepare future experiments on this molecule. Received 21 July 1999 and Received in final form 22 September 1999