Time-Resolved Circular Dichroism Spectroscopy

A method is described which is capable of measuring circular dichroism, either natural or induced by an applied magnetic field, with time resolution of nanoseconds or better. Circular dichroism is determined from the change in polarization properties of an elliptically polarized probe beam. Such measurements can be made with high sensitivity, making rapid measurements feasible. Procedures for making rapid circular dichroism measurements and precautions which must be taken in obtaining and interpreting the signals are discussed and examples of the application of the techniques in inorganic photochemistry and biophysics are presented.