Rotational-Energy Transfer in H2 Ortho-Para Conversion on a Metal Surface: Interplay between Electron and Phonon

Hirokazu Ueta1, Katsuyuki Fukutani1,2

  • 1Advanced Science Research Center, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, 2-4 Shirakata, Tokai, Ibaraki 319-1195, Japan.

Summary

The ortho-to-para conversion rate of hydrogen molecules on palladium surfaces increases with temperature. This suggests rotational energy transfer is primarily mediated by surface electrons, aided by substrate phonons.

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