ABSTRACT
An overview of the use of Coherent Anti-Stokes Raman Scattering (CARS) for measurements of rotational/translational temperature and vibrational distribution function in nonequilibrium molecular plasmas is presented in this entry. The fundamental of the technique, based on classical polarization theory, is outlined, as are the most essential experimental details including spectral analysis. A series of example studies are summarized including studies of vibrational energy loading and dynamics and measurements in a weakly ionized gas supersonic wind tunnel. The extension of the technique to measurement of electric field is also presented.
