Date Published:

DEC 10

Abstract:

Coexistence of prompt and delayed decay modes of energized polyatomic molecules is discussed with reference to the special features of larger molecules which makes it amenable to experimental observation by a suitable choice of initial conditions. The molecular parameters identified by the RRKM theory of unimolecular (delayed) decay suffice to characterize the prompt process as well. The expected ``kinetic stability'' of large molecules is thus not necessarily the rule, and fast processes are possible, suggesting the possibility of experimental control.