Time-resolved x-ray absorption spectroscopy with a water window high-harmonic source

An x-ray view of C–F and S–F bond breaks X-ray absorption spectroscopy is a useful probe of element-specific dynamics in molecular reactions. However, the required x-ray fluxes have rarely been available outside expensive dedicated facilities such as synchrotrons. Pertot et al. developed a tabletop laser-based high-harmonic source that extends far enough into the x-ray region to probe carbon K-edge and sulfur L-edge absorptions with femtosecond temporal resolution. They used this source to track the previously elusive dissociative dynamics of gaseous carbon tetrafluoride and sulfur hexafluoride after laser-induced ionization. Science , this issue p. 264