Generator coordinate Hartree–Fock method applied to the choice of a contracted Gaussian basis for the second-row atoms

The generator coordinate Hartree–Fock (GCHF) method is employed as a criterion for the selection of a 18s12p Gaussian basis for the atoms Na–Ar. The role of the weight functions in the assessment of the numerical integration range of the GCHF equations is shown. The extended basis is then contracted to (10s6p) by a standard procedure and in combination with the previously contracted (7s5p) Gaussian basis for the atoms Li–Ne is enriched with polarization functions. This basis is tested for AlF, SiO, PN, BCl, and P₂. The properties of interest were HF total energies, MP2 dipolar moments, bond distances, and dissociation energies. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Quant Chem 63: 927–934, 1997