Theoretical collision-induced rototranslational absorption spectra for the outer planets - H2-CH4 pairs

Computations of the rototranslational absorption spectra of H2-CH4 molecular complexes are presented which are based on the classical multipole expansion; spectral profiles are obtained from an exact quantum formalism. The interaction potential is based on laboratory measurements of H2-CH4 pairs at 195 and 297K. The computed spectra provide the most reliable temperature dependence of the absorption coefficient as a function of frequency that can be made under the present circumstances. A theoretical description of the H2CH4 dimer features is given in the isotropic potential approximation. This work is significant for the modeling of the far-infrared absorption of the outer planets' atmospheres, where H2 and CH4 are present.