Slow ground state molecules from matrix isolation sublimation

Abstract

We describe a cryogenic beam of 7 Li 2 dimers from sublimation of a neon matrix where Li atoms have been implanted via laser ablation of solid precursors of LiH. Laser absorption spectroscopy measured: T~7 K, Trot ~ 6K, drift velocity of 130 ms −1 with molecular density of 10 9 cm −3 . The formation of molecules in a matrix offers new possibilities.