Fourier-transform microwave spectroscopy of InF, InCl, and InBr, prepared using laser ablation

High-resolution rotational spectra of InF, InCl, and InBr have been measured with a pulsed jet cavity Fourier-transform microwave spectrometer. Samples were prepared by vaporizing In with a pulsed Nd:YAG laser, and reacting the vapour with a precursor gas entrained in the Ne backing gas of the jet. Precise rotational and nuclear quadrupole coupling constants have been obtained for all these molecules, along with the first nuclear spin-rotation constants of InCl and InBr. The hyperfine coupling constants are discussed in terms of the electronic structures of the molecules.