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Electron-ion recombination studies of planetary ionospheric and astrophysical ions. [HCO/sup +/, H/sub 2/CN/sup +/, and H/sub 2/CN/sup +/. HCN]

Thesis/Dissertation ·
OSTI ID:5115318
The rates of recombination of HCO/sup +/, H/sub 2/CN/sup +/ and H/sub 2/CN/sup +/.HCN ions with electrons were determined as a function of electron temperature using a microwave afterglow/mass spectrometer apparatus employing microwave electron heating. In addition, an investigation was carried out to obtain qualitatively the inelastic energy loss frequency of electrons in dilute N/sub 2/-Ne mixtures using microwave techniques. The recombination rate coefficient ..cap alpha..(HCO/sup +/), of interest for modelling planetary ionospheres and the interstellar medium (ISM), were measured over a wide range of electron temperatures. The results of the determinations are valid over the range 293 K less than or equal to T/sub e/ less than or equal to 4000 K and T/sub +/ = T/sub n/ = 293 K. The magnitude and the temperature dependence of the recombination coefficient for this ion is similar to that predicted and measured for simple diatomic ions. The H/sub 2/CN/sup +/ and H/sub 2/CN..mu...HCN ions are thought to be present in the ionospheres of the outer planets and those of their satellites, and in the ISM.
Research Organization:
Pittsburgh Univ., PA (USA)
OSTI ID:
5115318
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English