Reactivities of spin-orbit states in Al(2P1 2,3 2) + O2(X3Σg−) → AlO(X 2Σ+) + O(3P0,1,2). A fluorescence imaging study

A crossed beam chemical reaction, Al2P1 2,3 2) + O2(rmX 3Σg−) → AlO(X 2Σ) + O2P0,1,2) was investigated by fluorescence imaging techniques. Multiplex detection of speeds and quantum states of both reactants and products has been implemented. The two spin-orbit states of Al atoms display distinctive reactivities towards O2 molecules. An electrostatic interaction model was employed to elucidate thier dynamic behavior. A barrierless, attractive potential energy surface in the entrance valley of the allowed channel can be inferred from experimental results and model calculations.