Single molecule spectrum of rhodamine 6G on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite

We have measured the scanning tunneling microscope (STM) light emission spectrum of a single molecule of rhodamine 6G (R6G) adsorbed on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG). Since the HOPG substrate radiates no STM light, we have succeeded in observing the spectrum radiated by R6G alone. The spectrum agrees well with the photoluminescence spectrum of R6G on HOPG with the exception of two structures that may arise from a triplet state whose transition is forbidden in photoluminescence. Based on this agreement, we have determined the STM light emission mechanism of adsorbed R6G. (c) 2005 American Institute of Physics.