The effect of vibration and translational energy on the reaction dynamics of the H₂⁺ + H₂ system

A new experimental technique combining molecular beams, photoionization, and guided beam ion optics has been used to study several isotopic H 2+ + H2 reactions. The technique is described. By using this method we are able to observe the effects of both reagent translational and vibrational energy. Cross sections are reported for charge transfer, H3+ formation, and collision induced dissociation. Evidence is seen for competition betwen the channels, charge hopping in the reaction entrance channel, potential energy surface hopping, reaction on excited potential surfaces, and isotopic scrambling. A model for the reaction which takes into account the multisurface nature of the systems seems to explain the results satisfactorily. © 1981 American Institute of Physics.