Measurement of the rate constant for the association reaction CH + N2 at 53 K and its relevance to Triton's atmosphere

Abstract

The pulsed laser photolysis (PLP), time‐resolved laser‐induced fluorescence (LIF) technique has been used to study the association reaction CH + N2 in a CRESU (Cinétique de Réaction en Ecoulement Supersonique Uniforme) apparatus at 53 K and in the pressure range 0.46–6 mbar. The third order rate constant was found to be ko = (5.7±0.30) × 10−30cm6s−1. Consequences for the production of HCN in the atmosphere of Triton are discussed in light of this result.