Competing πσ* States in the Photodissociation of Adenine

Abstract

Despite the extensive investigations thus far, there is still debate regarding the role of the repulsive πσ* state in the photochemistry of adenine. We present evidence that suggests that H-atom elimination via both the azole group (N9) and the often overlooked amino group (N6) occurs following excitation at 200 nm. In contrast, excitation at 266 nm supports the view that the role of the πσ* states is minimal.