Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 15, 2026

Analysis of Complex Molecules and Their Reactions on Surfaces by Means of Cluster-Induced Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Published on: March 1, 2020
Doubly charged CO2 clusters formed by ionization of doped helium nanodroplets
Matthias Daxner1, Stephan Denifl1, Paul Scheier1
1Institut für Ionenphysik und Angewandte Physik, Universität Innsbruck, Technikerstraße 25, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
Abstract:
Helium nanodroplets are doped with carbon dioxide and ionized by electrons. Doubly charged cluster ions are, for the first time, identified based on their characteristic patterns of isotopologues. Thanks to the high mass resolution, large dynamic range, and a novel method to eliminate contributions from singly charged ions from the mass spectra, we are able to observe doubly charged cluster ions that are smaller than the ones reported in the past. The likely mechanism by which doubly charged ions are formed in doped helium droplets is discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Molecular Orbital Theory II
Intermolecular Forces
Valence Bond Theory
Valence Bond Theory
Ionic Bonding and Electron Transfer
Covalent Bonding and Lewis Structures

