Quantum scattering calculation for reaction Br + H2 on two potential energy surfaces

Three‐dimensional time‐dependent quantum wave packet calculations have been carried out for Br + H₂ on a new global ab initio and a semi‐empirical extended London–Eyring–Polanyi–Sato potential energy surface. It is shown that on the ab initio surface, the threshold energy is much lower, and the reaction probabilities, cross sections, and rate constants are much larger. The effects of the initial rovibrational excitation have also been studied. Comparison of rate constants with experimental measurement implies that the ab initio surface is more suitable for quantum dynamic calculation. The possible reasons and mechanism for the dynamical difference on the two PES are analyzed and discussed. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007