Nascent rotational quantum state distribution of NaH (NaD) from the reaction of Na*(4 2P) with H2, D2, and HD

Abstract

The nascent rotational quantum state distributions of NaH and NaD products resulting from the reactions of Na*(4 ²P_j) with H₂, D₂, and HD have been determined using the laser pump–probe technique. We have observed a bimodal rotational distribution with a minor component peaking at low J and a major component peaking at high J. We have observed no evidence for a kinematic isotope effect on the product distribution. Our results are consistent with a model wherein the reaction occurs predominantly on the attractive ²B₂ potential energy surface in near C_2v geometry with the rotational distribution being determined late in the exit channel.