Ab initio calculations on NO2 and NO 2 − : Optimization of diffuse Gaussian exponents

Ab initio calculations of NO₂ and NO ₂ ⁻ , using a Dunning 4s3p] basis augmented by 1 component diffuses andp functions were carried out. The SCF energies of NO₂ and NO_2/− (ground states) as a function of O _s , O _p , N _s , and N _p diffuse function exponents are given and discussed. The curves show some unexpected features which make the optimization of the diffuse function exponents problematic. The SCF vertical electron detachment energy for NO ₂ ⁻ as a function of the diffuse O _s , O _p , N _s , and N _p exponents is then discussed. Except for the case of O _p , the detachment energy is essentially independent of the O _s , N _s , and N _p exponents. Finally, results of SCF and MCSCF/CI calculations of the electron affinity of NO₂ are given and compared with experiment. Work performed under the auspices of the Division of Basic Energy Sciences of the U.S. Department of Energy. By acceptance of this article, the publisher and/or recipient acknowledges the U.S. Government's right to retain a nonexclusive, royalty-free license in and to any copyright covering this paper.