Nonlinear Raman Spectroscopy in Gases

Recent progress in high-resolution non-linear coherent Raman spectroscopy in the gas phase is reviewed. An instrumental spectral resolution of less than 100 MHz can be routinely achieved. It is limited by the convoluted linewidths of the lasers used for excitation and is of particular advantage in the gas phase, where the rotational structure of vibrational bands is to be resolved. It also allows the measurement of linewidths and line positions with an accuracy of 60 MHz when an appropriate wavemeter is used for calibration. After a short overview of the various techniques being used, examples of recent results of the evaluation of measurements on nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide and methane will be presented.