Classical rotational correlation functions for symmetric molecules are derived from quantum-mechanical results in neutron scattering. The analysis differs from an earlier calculation in that all values of the projection quantum number are considered. The results agree with those obtained by St. Pierre and Steele using classical statistical mechanics. Numerical results for ammonia and water are presented.

• Received 29 October 1969

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.1.970