The fluorescence of 5-cyano-2-(1-pyrrolyl)-pyridine (CPP) in different solvents and in solid argon: An experimental and theoretical study

The fluorescence spectrum of 5-cyano-2-(1-pyrrolyl)-pyridine (CPP) was measured in several solvents as well as in an argon matrix. Based on comparison with other compounds and on ab initio calculations it is proposed that the fluorescence in the argon matrix and in non-polar solvents is due to two electronic excited states: one is of locally excited nature, the other a charge transfer (CT) state. In polar solvents the spectrum is dominated by the CT emission. The photo-physical behavior of CPP is discussed by comparison with that of other molecules exhibiting dual fluorescence and in view of a recent model developed for the benzene analog.