Matrix Reactions of K and Rb Atoms with Oxygen Molecules

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Abstract
Deposition of atomic beams of potassium and rubidium with oxygen molecules at high dilution in argon together on a salt window at 15°K produces the KO2 and RbO2 molecules, as identified by infrared spectra. Secondary reaction yields the KO2K and RbO2Rb molecules. Oxygen isotopic mixtures and simultaneous deposition of two different alkali-metal atoms verify the molecular composition. Detailed concentration changes and oxygen isotropic mixtures identify the new molecular species O2KO2 and O2RbO2, the potassium and rubdium disuperoxide molecules which likely have the D2d structure. Force constants for the molecules synthesized here are compared with those reported earlier for LiO2 and NaO2.