Uniform Reaction Rates

Li_nC₆₀⁺ Decay Rates

The decay rates of individual Li_nC₆₀⁺ clusters for n=1-5 is measured by first mass selecting the desired species and then exposing the cloud to Li flux for varying durations. Rates are indicated by closed circles. The decay rates determined by fitting the selected mass spectra (as described in figure 10) are also plotted as open circles. Results suggest:

• Decay rates, k_exp(n), are independent of n.
  This is consistent with a rate proportional to (alpha/mu)^1/2.
  The reduced mass is ~7 amu for all collisions.
• These decay rates are consistent with the kinetic model.
• The decay rates of Li_nC₆₀⁺ clusters are equal to the decay rate of C₆₀⁺ clusters within experimental uncertainty.