Optical Analogs of 2D NMR

Multidimensional Fourier transform methods can simplify and manipulate magnetic resonance spectra, helping to determine the structures of large biomolecules. Researchers are also exploiting the shorter wavelengths of visible and infrared light to determine instantaneous molecular structures. In his Perspective, [Jonas][1] highlights the report by [ Tian et al .][2], who have recorded two-dimensional optical spectra by using a programmable femtosecond pulse shaper to generate sequences of phase-controlled collinear pulses. Automated pulse shaping promises to expand the scope of two-dimensional femtosecond spectroscopy by making complex pulse manipulations easy. [1]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/300/5625/1515 [2]: http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/short/300/5625/1553