Rotational dependence of the predissociation linewidths of the Schumann-Runge bands of O2

The predissociation linewidths of vibrational levels v=0-12 for 16O 2, 16O 18O, and 18O 2 molecules in the B 3Σ u - state with rotational quantum numbers N≤20 have been calculated taking into account the spin-orbit interactions of the B 3Σ u - state with the 5Π u, 3Σ u +, 3Π u, and 1Π u states, and the rotational coupling with the 3Π u, state. The predissociation linewidths exhibit systematic variations with rotational quantum number for different vibrational levels. Good agreement between most of the calculated and experimental linewidths has been obtained for all three isotopic molecules, with the exception of the set of linewidths of 16O 2 for v=0 and 2. The agreement can be improved by adjustment of the 1Π u potential and the strength of the spin-orbit interaction between the B 3Σ u - and 1Π u states. © 1993 American Institute of Physics.published_or_final_versio