Microwave Spectroscopy of OH−Ions in the KCl and NaCl Lattices

Microwave resonant absorption has been observed in O${\mathrm{H}}^{-}$-doped KCl and NaCl crystals. Several lines were observed from 8-40 GHz by using relatively standard microwave spectroscopic techniques. The zero-field spectra obtained here indicate that the O${\mathrm{H}}^{-}$ ion experiences a strong ${\mathrm{C}}_{4v}$ potential in addition to the expected octahedral crystal field. The ${\mathrm{C}}_{4v}$ potential probably arises from a shift of the O${\mathrm{H}}^{-}$ center of mass from the lattice site.