Reactive scattering of alkali dimers: K2+ Br2, ICl, IBr, BrCN

Abstract

Angular distribution measurements of KX or KCN reactive scattering of a potassium dimer K₂ beam by cross beam molecules Br₂, ICl, IBr and BrCN are reported. The magnitude of the total reaction cross-sections indicates that the entrance valley is dominated by an electron jump. Forward peaking of the centre of mass differential cross sections suggests that the K₂ ⁺ ion dissociates more slowly than the XY^- ion in large impact parameter collisions. The predominant reaction path yields a potassium halide (or cyanide) and potassium atom, KX+K+Y. These features are rendered plausible in terms of the electronic structure of the potential surface.