Trapped electrons produced by the deposition of alkali-metal atoms on ice and solid alcohols at 77°K. Part I. Optical spectra and electron spin resonance spectra

Abstract

The deposition of alkali-metal atoms on ice and solid aliphatic alcohols at 77°K in a rotating cryostat yields intensely coloured deposits. Optical and electron spin resonance (e.s.r.) spectra of the deposits show that trapped electrons are produced by the transference of the unpaired electron from the alkali-metal atom to the solid matrix. The e.s.r. spectrum from ice exhibits hyperfine structure owing to interaction with six hydrogen atoms of neighbouring water molecules.