Formation of negative ions by interaction of electrons with heterocyclic compounds

Abstract

Curves are derived for the effective yield of negative ions from the interaction of electrons with thiophene, 2-methylthiophene, 2-propylthiophene, 3-methylthiophene, 3-propylthiophene, furan, and selenophene. It is found that there are two quasi-stationary states of the molecular negative ions having lifetimes of about 10⁻¹⁴ and 4 · 10⁻¹⁵ sec. The cross sections for formation of these states are estimated, and also the cross sections for resonant elastic scattering of electrons. The states are shown to be related to excited states of the molecule. It is found that alkyl substitution has the following effects on resonant electron capture: a) reduces the probability of ring breakage and b) reduces the energy levels of the quasi-stationary state. Some aspects of dissociative ionization are discussed.