Fano Resonance in Molecules

Fano resonance in molecules occurs when two types of electronic or vibrational states, one broad and easily excited, and the other narrow and more discrete, interact and interfere with each other. This interaction creates an asymmetric spectral feature—like a distinctive peak and dip—in the molecule’s response to light or energy. It reveals complex coupling between different states, providing insights into molecular structure and dynamics. Essentially, Fano resonance is a signature of how different energy pathways within a molecule influence each other, resulting in characteristic patterns useful for understanding molecular behavior at a detailed level.