Intersystem crossing is a radiationless process in which a molecule transitions between electronic states of different spin multiplicity, typically from a singlet to a triplet state. This process is significant in photochemistry and photophysics as it influences the fate of excited states and affects phenomena such as phosphorescence and photochemical reactions.

Intersystem Crossing

Intersystem crossing

radiationless process

molecule transitions

Electronic states refer to the various energy levels that electrons can occupy in an atom or molecule, which determine the chemical and physical properties of the substance. Understanding these states is crucial for explaining phenomena like absorption, emission spectra, and chemical bonding.

electronic states

different spin multiplicity

A singlet state refers to a quantum system of two particles that are entangled in such a way that their total spin is zero, making them perfectly correlated in their spin measurements regardless of the distance separating them. This phenomenon is a cornerstone of quantum mechanics, illustrating the non-local correlations that defy classical intuitions and form the basis for quantum information science.

Singlet State

The triplet state is an electronic state of a molecule where two electrons have parallel spins, resulting in a total spin quantum number of one. It is typically lower in energy than the singlet state and plays a crucial role in processes like phosphorescence and intersystem crossing in photochemistry.

triplet state

Photochemistry is the branch of chemistry concerned with the chemical effects of light, where photons are absorbed by molecules leading to chemical reactions. It plays a crucial role in processes such as photosynthesis, vision, and the development of solar energy technologies.

photochemistry

Photophysics is the study of the physical processes that occur when molecules interact with light, including absorption, emission, and energy transfer. It provides insights into the fundamental behavior of excited states and is crucial for understanding phenomena in fields like spectroscopy, photochemistry, and optoelectronics.

photophysics

fate of excited states

phenomena such as phosphorescence

Photochemical reactions are chemical processes initiated by the absorption of light, where photons provide the energy required to break chemical bonds and form new ones. These reactions play a crucial role in natural processes like photosynthesis and are utilized in various industrial applications, including photolithography and the synthesis of complex organic compounds.

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