New Technique for High-Resolution Microwave Spectroscopy

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Abstract
An experiment is described in which microwave resonance lines have been obtained having widths substantially less than the normal Doppler width. The line shape obtained depends on the properties of a radiating gas when contained in a cavity in the form of a pillbox, of diameter large compared to height. Collisions of molecules with the walls take place in such a manner that the collisions narrow the line instead of broadening it. The 1.25-cm inversion transition in ammonia was observed, and lines one quarter the normal Doppler width of 73 kc/sec obtained; further narrowing appears feasible. The line shapes and widths are in good agreement with the calculations.

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