Very long terahertz free induction decay in gaseous hydrogen bromide

Abstract

Free induction decay radiation was observed in low pressure hydrogen bromide that continued for more than 180 ns after excitation by a terahertz pulse from a free electron laser. The signal was measured in real time using an ultrafast Schottky diode detector. Such a signal corresponds in frequency domain spectral resolution to about 10 MHz, which allows for resolution of the isotopic and quadrupole structure of the absorption line.