Electron–Molecule Resonances: Current Developments

Abstract

Electron–molecule resonances, which are short-lived excited states of molecular negative ions, have attracted increasing attention in recent times due to their complex dynamics as well as their role in wide variety of practical applications. Formation and decay of the resonance is the most efficient way of converting kinetic energy into chemical energy in a medium through the creation of vibrationally or electronically excited states, radicals and negative ions—all of which are chemically very active. It has been found that the energy specificity of this process allows chemical control by bond selective fragmentation of organic molecules. Though diverse experimental techniques have been used to study the resonances over the last few decades, recent advances have provided several new insights into the dynamics of these species. This review would provide a short overview of the role of these resonances in various areas of science and technology followed by some of the significant findings in recent times.