The Application of Fast Fourier Transform and Convolution Techniques to Picosecond Continuum Spectroscopy

Abstract
The use of the fast Fourier transform in the processing of photographic data obtained from picosecond continuum spectroscopy is described. The resulting reduction in the complexity and computation time has permitted all of the data acquisition and processing to be carried out with an eight-bit microcomputer. Specific examples of some key problems in the data processing that are peculiar to this spectroscopic technique and methods of overcoming these problems are discussed. Experimental results that serve to illustrate both the experimental technique itself as well as the versatility and reliability of the data processing algorithm are presented for the transient absorption of a Cr(III) complex in solutions.