Abstract

The structure, energetics, and interconversion of isomers of Nb10 and Nb10+ are studied using density functional theory with Gaussian basis sets, using guess structures derived from basin-hopping simulations with the Finnis-Sinclair [Philos. Mag. A 50, 45 (1984)] potential. These results are used as input to a master equation approach to model the relaxation of these clusters. Ionization potentials are calculated for all relevant minima, as are the infrared spectra. On the basis of these data, and known experimental results, plausible explanations are given for the biexponential reaction kinetics observed for Nb10 and Nb10+ with respect to small molecule adsorbates. In principle, this approach could be extended to investigate any midsized transition metal cluster that exhibits structural isomerism.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.