Interactions in open shell systems: A look at the atmosphere
Abstract
This thesis is divided into two parts. The first part explores the radical hydrogen-bond and the second part catalytic effects in open-shell systems. Both parts have important applications to atmospheric chemistry. Studies on radical-molecule complexes suggest that these systems are unusually strongly bounded. However, there have been no systematic studies that have examined the origin or nature of bonding of these unique systems. In this thesis we report on the origin of the radical hydrogen-bond and its applications to aerosol nucleation (chapters 2 and 3). In the second part we look at the catalytic effect of water and metal surfaces all involving radical species. We look at the importance of a pre-reaction complex in hydrogen abstraction reactions by OH radicals. In line with the catalytic effect of water we look at the interaction of the HO2 radical with a water surface. Finally the interaction of the NO radical with the Ni(111) surface was explore.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Francisco, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Physical chemistry|Atmospheric sciences|Chemistry
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