Detecting quantum superpositions of classically distinguishable states of a molecule

Abstract
We present a method for the unambiguous detection of a classically distinguishable coherent superposition state in the vibrational coordinate of a diatomic molecule. The configuration of the state may be observed via the time-dependent spectrum of spontaneous emission from the molecule. The signature of the states in the emission spectra is discussed, as are the practical possibilities for experiments on a realistic molecular system.