Gaussian basis sets for calculation of spin densities in first-row atoms

Summary The suitability of Gaussian basis sets for ab initio calculation of Fermi contact spin densities is established by application to the prototype first-row atoms B-F having open shell p electrons. Small multiconfiguration self-consistent-field wave functions are used to describe relevant spin and orbital polarization effects. Basis sets are evaluated by comparing the results to highly precise numerical grid calculations previously carried out with the same wave function models. It is found that modest contracted Gaussian basis sets developed primarily for Hartree-Fock calculations can give semiquantitative results if augmented by diffuse functions and if further uncontracted in the outer core-inner valence region.