Growth patterns in binary clusters of Group IV and V metals

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Abstract
Binary clusters composed of Group IV and Group V metals (e.g., Sn/Bi) are prepared by laser vaporization of corresponding alloys in a pulsed nozzle molecular beam source. Relative abundances of these clusters are studied with laser photoionization mass spectroscopy at 193 and 157 nm. Mass spectral abundance patterns for all systems studied (Sn/Bi, Pb/Sb, Sn/As) exhibit highly nonstatistical combinations of component elements. Preferential stoichiometries follow common patterns throughout these cluster systems, which can be related to the bonding and stability of condensed phase cluster ions of these same metals. These patterns are predicted by a simple valence electron counting model.