On a simple reaction mechanism for the collision-induced dissociation He + Li2(B1Πu) → He + Li(2 2S) + Li(2 2P)

A simple reaction mechanism is suggested for the dissociation of electronically excited Li₂(B¹Π_u) in collision with rare-gas atoms. Experimental rate constants for dissociation of Li₂ in specific vibrational—rotational levels (ν1J) show an unexpected behaviour as a function of the initial molecular energy and angular momentum. We propose that raction proceeds by a transition to the ¹Π_g state of Li₂. This may dissociate more readily since it is more weakly bound and has a larger equilibrium distance than the ¹Π_u state.