KINETICS OF THREE-BODY ATOM RECOMBINATION
Abstract
The following values of the three-body recombination rate constant in units of cc sq per mole sq sec were measured at 300 or 350 K: N + N + N2 yields N2 + N2, 8.0 x 10 to the 14th power; N + O + N2 yields NO + N2, 3.3 x 10 to the 15th power; and H + H + H2 yields H2 + H2, 8.9 x 10 to the 15th power. The rate constant for the reaction N + O yields NO + O was found to be 5 x 10 to the 7th power cc/mole sec at 350 K. A statistical-mechanical calculation of the threebody recombination rate constant gave values which agreed well with the above experimental results and also reproduced the previously determined value of less than 2.5 x 10 to the 14th power cc sq per mole sq sec for O + O + O2 yields O2 + O2. The large variation in rate constant for different gases is due mainly to differences in atomic masses and statistical weights. Redissociation of molecules in high vibrational levels is important in reducing the net rate of recombination. At high temperatures, the theory predicts a rate constant varying as T to the minus 0.4 power. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0283042
Entities
People
- C.b. Kretschmer
- H.l. Petersen
Organizations
- Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings