Multiphoton ionization translational spectroscopy (MITS) of I2

A new technique is introduced based on the measurement of kinetic energies and angular distributions of fragments in multiphoton ionization of molecule Both positive and negative ions are measured as well as neutrals. Information is obtained about highly excited repulsive states and about the multiphot ionization process itself. Examples are reported for MPI of I₂. In a one-laser experiment dissociative autoionization is observed. In a two-laser experiment processes are distinguised, that have different intermediate states. Lifetimes of those states are measured. Information is also obtained ab an ion pair formation process, leading to a reinterpretation of potential curves.