The Low Velocity Scattering of H2+ in Hydrogen. The Determination of Neutralization

Abstract

Measurements of the effective cross‐sectional area for neutralization have been made for H₂⁺ in hydrogen over a velocity range of 4 to 30 volts. As this is an electron transfer phenomenon, its measurement is of some theoretical interest. The technique of the method of measurement is discussed and possible experimental uses for it are suggested. The ability to make these measurements has enabled the elastic scattering of H₂⁺ in hydrogen to be determined. In the range of 10 to 25 volts (r_a = 2.14 to 1.70A), the potential law found is $\mathrm{V=-}\frac{{\text{10.0×10}}^{\text{−32}}}{r^4}$ . As the constant, K, in this equation is considerably greater than an interaction based upon the polarizability of the hydrogen molecule, other forces such as those causing valence bonds must come into play in addition. Above 25 volts (r_a < 1.70A) the potential law becomes $\mathrm{V=-}\frac{{\text{6.96×10}}^{\text{−24}}}{r^3}$ .