Coherent radiative control of unimolecular reactions. Three-dimensional results

Abstract

A method for controlling product yields in photodissociation using weak lasers is applied to CH₃I dissociating to CH₃+ I(²P_3/2) or CH₃+ I*(²P_1/2). Results, obtained in three dimensions, show substantial control over the I*(²P_1/2)/I(²P_3/2) ratio for both M-selected and M-averaged initial states. The basis for the method in control of the continuum superposition state is emphasized.