The identification of the classical donor–acceptor complex H3N–BF3 in the gas phase
Abstract
The J=1 â†� 0 rotational transitions of the four isotopomers H314N11BF3, H314N10BF3, H315N11BF3 and H315N10BF3 of the archetypal donor–acceptor complex formed between ammonia and boron trifluoride have been detected with a pulsed-nozzle, Fourier-transform microwave spectrometer; by using a fast-mixing nozzle, H3NBF3 has been isolated in collisionless expansion before condensation can occur, thereby allowing the first detection of this elusive species in the gas phase.