Matrix isolation study of the products of the interaction of electrons and of argon atoms in excited Rydberg states with HCCIF2

Infrared absorptions of the (CICF)?H—F^? and HCF^?₂ anions have been identified in the spectrum of the products of the photolysis of HCCIF₂ isolated in an argon matrix at 14 K using radiation in the 147—105 nm spectral range. These anions are also produced in matrix experiments in which the Ar:HCCIF₂ sample is codeposited with an atomic beam of sodium and charge transfer processes are induced by mercury are radiation, as well as in experiments in which the sample is codeposited with a beam of argon that has been passed through a microwave discharge. Both the spectral data and molecular orbital calculations for HCF^?₂ indicate that this molecule has an exceptionally weak CH bond and that its apex angle is considerably more acute than that of the uncharged HCF₂ radical. The high threshold for ion production from HCCIF₂ dictates consideration of the role played by highly excited Rydberg states of argon in the discharge experiments. It appears probable that charge transfer occurs between these excited argon and HCCIF₂. The high ion yield typical of the discharge experiments is also consistent with product formation resulting from collision of matrix-isolated HCCIF₂ with free excitons formed by the impact of highly excited argon atoms at the surface of the solid deposit.