INFRARED-SPECTROSCOPY IN AN H2-O2-HE DISCHARGE - H3O+

In an effort to observe and identify the long-time elusive infrared spectrum of the HO2+ ion, we have undertaken a thorough investigation of an H2O2He glow discharge. A high resolution tunable infrared laser (color center laster) spectrometer along with high sensitivity velocity modulation detection was used. An ac glow discharge of 100 mTorr H2, 100 mTorr O2, and 1-10 Torr He was studied between 3100 and 3600 cm-1. The majority of the spectrum can be attributed to the H3O+ ion. The hot band, ν2 + ν3 ← ν2, has been studied along with a complete analysis of the ν3 fundamental. Different plasma conditions were used to help distinguish the hot band transitions from the fundamental transitions. Deviations due to perturbations were observed in the PP(J, 6) and PQ(J, 6) transitions of all the bands. The assignments and analysis are presented. © 1991.