Accurate quantum dynamics of the simplest isomerization system involving double-H transfer

Abstract

We perform accurate quantum dynamics calculations on the isomerization of vinylidene-acetylene. Large-scale parallel computations are accomplished by an efficient theoretical scheme developed by our group, in which the basis functions are customized for the double-H transfer process. The A′1 and B″1 vinylidene and delocalization states are obtained. The peaks recently observed in the cryo-SEVI spectra are analyzed, and very good agreement for the energy levels is achieved between theory and experiment. The discrepancies of energy levels between our calculations and recent experimental cryo-SEVI spectra are of similar magnitudes to the experimental error bars, or ≤30 cm−1 excluding those involving the excitation of the CCH2 scissor mode. A kind of special state, called the isomerization state, is revealed and reported, which is characterized by large probability densities in both vinylidene and acetylene regions. In addition, several states dominated by vinylidene character are reported for the first time. The present work would contribute to the understanding of the double-H transfer.