Infrared Emission Spectra of Gaseous B2O3 and B2O2

Abstract

The infrared emission spectra of gaseous B₂O₃ and B₂O₂ in the temperature range 1400–1800°K have been studied in the region 700–4000 cm^—1. Distinct bands were found for natural B₂O₃ at 2040, 1302, and 742 cm^—1, and the B¹⁰–B¹¹ isotope shifts measured. From the isotope shift data and other considerations the B₂O₃ molecule has been assigned a V structure having C_2v symmetry. A force constant analysis has been made and a frequency assignment is given from which thermal functions have been computed. The calculated force constants are consistent with the high stability of the molecule. Only one emission band of gaseous B₂O₂, at 1890 cm^—1, has been observed. A linear D_∞h structure was assumed and a frequency assignment and thermal functions estimated.