Molecules change their equilibrium geometry when they become vibrationally excited

the verdict

SUPPORTED

the evidence backs this

Recorded sources

3 sources for · 0 against

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Is it true that molecules change their equilibrium geometry when they become vibrationally excited?

Yes. Molecules undergo noticeable changes in their equilibrium geometry and bond angles when they acquire vibrational or electronic excitation.

Verdict: SUPPORTED · 3 sources for, 0 against · Last checked 4 Aug 2026

The analysis

The claim is specific and empirical, dealing with molecular structure during vibrational excitation. Multiple studies (such as papers 1, 2, and 5) directly demonstrate that molecular geometry, bond lengths, and angles change when molecules become vibrationally or electronically excited. Therefore, the claim is supported by the evidence.

Evidence for · 3

Franck-Condon analysis of laser-induced fluorescence excitation spectrum of anthranilic acid: evaluation of geometry change upon S(0) --> S(1) excitation.

2009

Evaluates significant geometry changes in anthranilic acid upon electronic and vibrational excitation.

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Leśniewski, S., Kolek, P., Pirowska, K., Sobolewski, A., & Najbar, J. (2009). Franck-Condon analysis of laser-induced fluorescence excitation spectrum of anthranilic acid: evaluation of geometry change upon S(0) --> S(1) excitation.. doi.org. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.3043818

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More for · 2

Electronic, vibrational, and rotational structures in the S0 1A1 and S1 1A1 states of phenanthrene.

2012

Demonstrates that the stable geometrical structure of phenanthrene is markedly changed upon electronic and vibrational excitation.

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Kowaka, Y., Yamanaka, T., & Baba, M. (2012). Electronic, vibrational, and rotational structures in the S0 1A1 and S1 1A1 states of phenanthrene.. doi.org. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.3703755

Change of geometry by vibrational excitation: The vHF=3 spectrum and structure of HF–CO2

2003

Shows that the HF-CO2 complex undergoes a major change from quasilinear to a bent species upon vibrational excitation.

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Yu, Z., Stone, T. A., Chuang, C., Drisdell, W., & Klemperer, W. (2003). Change of geometry by vibrational excitation: The vHF=3 spectrum and structure of HF–CO2. doi.org. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.1562627

Related receipts

Is it true that molecules with a hexagonal planar geometry exist? COMMON KNOWLEDGE related question, same topic

Receipt History

first checked04 Aug 2026

judged → SUPPORTED · 8304 Aug 2026

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