The 20th annual Symposium will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2009.

Photophysics of Benzoic Acid Derivatives
Poster Session-Science Complex Atrium, 4:00 PM

Culver  Redd,   '11 86
   Major: Physics
   Hometown: Lowell, MI

Sponsor(s): Craig Bieler
Support: Student Research Partners Program

Abstract: 
Within the past few years, a spectrometry technique called Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization (MALDI) has come into common use. This technique allows mass spectrometry of large organic molecules by crystallizing them into one of a variety of inorganic matrix compounds. However, a satisfactory understanding of the processes by which these matrix compounds absorb light has not yet been attained, thereby undermining the understanding of the MALDI mechanism as a whole.

My research has focused on benzoic acid, one of the more common matrix compounds. In particular, I have studied the ways in which functional group modification affects the molecule’s ability to absorb light. If we can gain more insight into how the addition or removal of various functional groups affects the photophysics of benzoic acid, we may be able to better suggest and support hypotheses about how the molecule itself absorbs light.

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