Microwave evidence for interstellar molecules.

Abstract

The present state of microwave observations of interstellar molecules is reviewed, with emphasis on the need for accurate theoretical understanding of their rates and modes of production. Typical abundances of molecular species in dark interstellar clouds are tabulated, and it is shown that in addition to abundance information observations of molecular lines can yield data on the isotope contents, velocities, and temperatures of the clouds in which they exist. Collisions, spontaneous emission, the isotropic radiation, radiation trapping, and higher-frequency radiation are evaluated as factors contributing to molecular excitation processes.