Photolysis of asym-N 2O 4 (ONONO 2) isolated in an argon matrix at 11 K

Abstract

An unstable isomer of dinitrogen tetroxide. ONONO 2 (asym-N 2O 4), was photolyzed in an Ar matrix at 11 K at 436 and ≳ 510 nm. Asym- to sym-N 2O 4 (O 2NNO 2) isomerization was the major process at 436 nm; other products observed where NO, cis-(NO) 2, asym-N 2O 3 (O 2NNO) and N 2O 5. Irradiation of asym-N 2O 4 at ≳510 nm induced no reaction.