The formation of positive molecular ions on the surface of tantalum

Abstract

The formation of positive singly charged molecular ions with the relative molecular weight 254 ± 3 on the surface of a tantalum band was studied. The ions were fixed by recording their emission at temperatures from 320 to 450°C when the band was rapidly heated. Measurements were largely performed in a vacuum, although the formation of molecular ions was also observed at atmospheric pressure in nitrogen.