Solvent effects on the S₀→S₂ absorption spectra of \beta-carotene

Absorption spectra of \beta -carotene in 31 solvents are measured in ambient conditions. Solvent effects on the 0--0 band energy, the bandwidth, and the transition moment of the S₀ → S₂ transition are analysed. The discrepancies between published results of the solvent effects on the 0--0 band energy are explained by taking into account microscopic solute-solvent interactions. The contributions of polarity and polarizability of solvents to 0--0 band energy and bandwidth are quantitatively distinguished. The 0--0 transition energy of the S₂ state at the gas phase is predicted to locate between 23000 and 23600 cm^-1.