Description
New radiotelescopes, such as the very sensitive ALMA, will enable the detection of interstellar molecules in much lower concentrations than previously possible. A successful identification of an interstellar molecule requires that laboratory microwave and millimeter-wave spectra are investigated. Several cyanopolyynes and alkynylcarbonitriles have already been detected in the interstellar medium (ISM). Cyanoacetylene (HCCCN) is abundant in the ISM and its methyl derivative, 2-butynenitrile (CH3CCCN), is also present. The next derivative, ethyl cyanoacetylene, (2-pentynenitrile C_2_H_5_CCCN) may also be present in interstellar space. We report the rotational spectrum of the ethyl cyanoacetylene (C_2_H_5_CCCN). This is hoped to facilitate identifying gaseous ethyl cyanoacetylene in the ISM.
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