Reanalysis of the Rh(111)+(2×2)-3NO structure using automated tensor LEED

Abstract

The structure of Rh(111)+(2×2)-3NO has been reanalyzed using automated tensor LEED, in view of new results which strongly suggest different molecular adsorption sites to those previously concluded. The reanalysis confirms and further refines the new model, according to which the NO molecules occupy top sites and both kinds of three-fold hollow sites. These findings are at odds with earlier conclusions from vibrational spectroscopy, which assigned the molecules to top and bridge sites. Together with other metal/NO and metal/CO systems described in the literature, the Rh(111)+(2×2)-3NO phase once again demonstrates that great care has to be taken in adsorption site assignment using the C–O and especially the N–O stretch frequencies.