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.