Ultrafast studies of elusive chemical reactions in the gas phase

• 成果类型: Review
• 署名作者: Dantus, Marcos
• 署名单位: Michigan State University; Michigan State University; Michigan State University
• 刊物名称: SCIENCE
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0036-13058
• DOI: 10.1126/science.adk1833
• 发表日期: 2024-08-09
• 关键词: photoinduced molecular detachment; processing numerical-analysis; transition-state dynamics; bimolecular reactions; femtosecond dynamics; halogenated alkanes; cross-sections; mass-spectra; recoil-ion; time

摘要

The chemical composition of the interstellar medium and planetary atmospheres is constantly in flux as atoms and molecules collide and interact with high-energy particles such as electrons, protons, and photons. These transformative processes ultimately lead to the coalescence of molecules and eventually the birth of stars. Our understanding of these chemical ecosystems relies on models that synthesize data from gas-phase experiments, providing insights into reaction cross sections. This Review examines efforts to delve into the fundamental bond-forming and bond-breaking dynamics that occur during bimolecular and electron-initiated reactions. These experiments involve clever approaches to establish a time reference and the collision geometry necessary for tracking atomic motion with femtosecond time resolution. Findings from these efforts enhance present models and improve predictions for molecule-molecule and electron-molecule collisions.