Energy partitioning in O(1D2) reactions. II. O(1D2)+CH4 → OH(v′)+CH3

Abstract
The complete OH vibrational distribution created by the reaction of O(1D2) with CH4 has been recorded directly, using low pressure infrared emission spectroscopy. The result shows that the energy is partitioned nonstatistically into this degree of freedom. The population of OH(v’=2) is approximately equal to or slightly greater than that of OH(v’=1) under the conditions of this experiment and substantial populations are recorded from all levels up to OH(v’=4), the maximum allowed by the exoergicity of the reaction.