Abstract

Using mass resolved multiphoton ionization spectroscopy, we have detected the first electronic spectrum of the CH₂F free radical. The CH₂F radicals were produced in a discharge fast flow reactor¹ and introduced into a mass spectrometer’s ion optics where they were irradiated with the tightly focussed output of a Nd:YAG pumped dye laser. CH2F radicals were first produced via the reaction of F + ketene. At laser wavelengths between 345-363 nm a spectrum was observed from m/z 33 ions. To identify the spectrum’s carrier these experiments were repeated with the reaction, F + CH₃F. Identical spectra were observed.

© 1984 Optical Society of America