Kinetics of Unimolecular Breakdown. V. Mass-Spectral Patterns

Abstract

The measurement of mass‐spectral patterns is discussed as a foundation for a formal theory. The formalism is developed in close correspondence with experimental information and concepts. The Morrison technique is discussed and expressions are derived for all measured quantities in terms of the matrix elements of relevant transition operators. Rearrangement processes are discussed and isotope retention ratios are predicted in agreement with experiment.